Ground Support Equipment (GSE) are essential for the efficient and safe operation of airports, playing a critical role in aircraft servicing. The design and functionality of GSE significantly impact operational efficiency, safety, and the working conditions of ground staff.
Ergonomic considerations in GSE design enhance operator comfort and safety, incorporating features such as adjustable controls, improved visibility, and reduced vibration and noise levels. Thus, mitigating operator injuries and fatigue.
Functional specifications for GSE outline the essential features and capabilities required for effective operation. These specifications include performance metrics, safety features, and ergonomic considerations, ensuring that GSE meets the operational needs of handlers.
IATA is committed to advancing the field of GSE by developing recommended practices as well as innovative, efficient, and sustainable guidelines.
Ground damage reduction
As per an IATA study, GSE operations accounts up to 40% of total global aircraft ground damage. Since 2017, IATA has been recommending GSE to be fitted with anti-collision systems (also called enhanced GSE) as one of the responses to increasing ground damage costs. The IATA Enhanced GSE Recognition Program promotes adoption of these enhancements to reduce ground damage risk. It recognizes GHSPs that meet high criteria for safety and sustainability.
> Learn more about the IATA Enhanced GSE Recognition Program
Autonomy
Autonomous GSE utilize advanced technology and sensors to perform tasks without human intervention. Integration of autonomous GSE represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of ground operations that is poised to redefine efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and mobility, setting new benchmarks for the industry. Various aspects of autonomy, including operational criteria, are greatly assisted by standardization. IATA has developed recommended practices for testing and implementing autonomous GSE and continues to work on use cases and end-to-end automation processes to facilitate the adoption of this technology.
Green GSE
GSE has an important role to play in emissions reduction. Amongst other alternatives, electric GSE has already seen consistent adoption. By adopting electric GSE, users can significantly improve their environmental footprint - reduces emission, lowers noise levels, and decreases maintenance costs, making ground operations more sustainable and efficient. However, adoption of electric GSE is not as straightforward and IATA has developed recommendations and case studies to guide the industry through the transition.
For further details, either click on the link to specific topic or contact us at groundops@iata.org