In the changing landscape of aviation ground services, Swissport is charging ahead—quite literally—with an ambitious electrification strategy that promises to reshape Ground Support Equipment (GSE) across the Asia Pacific region. Brad Moore, Swissport International’s CEO for Asia Pacific, is steering the company towards a future where electric vehicles and advanced automation are not just optional upgrades but essential components of modern airport operations.
A vision for transformation
“We firmly believe that GSE electrification brings significant operational advantages to our Cargo and Ground Handling business, making equipment simpler, safer, and more efficient to operate and maintain,” Brad explains. “In the Asia Pacific, we’ve already introduced electric versions of most GSE types, including the largest electric aircraft pushback tractor on the market, which is currently in use at Melbourne Airport for A380 operations. Automation is the natural next step in this evolution, and we are actively collaborating with manufacturers to identify the most impactful use cases for its implementation.”
Swissport’s sustainability goals are equally ambitious, with the company targeting 55% of its motorised GSE fleet electric by the end of 2032. “In the APAC region, we are already at 21.9%. To achieve this, we’ve established a global electrification policy with a clear roadmap and definitive timelines, specifying when only electric versions of certain GSE types can be procured,” says Brad. “This structured approach ensures we stay on track to meet our goals while driving meaningful progress in reducing our carbon footprint.”
Navigating regional challenges
Despite these clear plans, electrification efforts face several challenges. “Many airports in the region lack the necessary charging infrastructure to support widespread electrification, and progress in addressing this remains slow and inconsistent. Additionally, some countries within the region have yet to prioritise this transition,” Brad notes. To tackle this challenge, Swissport is collaborating with airports across the Asia Pacific to create joint solutions for charging infrastructure, fostering dialogue, and enhancing the preparedness of facilities to support large eGSE, including aircraft tractors and lower-deck loaders.
Amidst these challenges, the company also sees unique opportunities. “The increasing push from our airline partners for electrification and sustainability presents a unique opportunity for collaboration. By partnering with airlines, we can create a compelling value proposition that promotes a sustainable future and encourages airports to adopt the necessary changes,” Brad explains. “Highlighting our leadership in eGSE within our messaging has been positively received by airlines and strengthens our position as a trusted partner committed to innovation and environmental responsibility.”
Innovation in motion
Swissport has already launched numerous initiatives to bring its sustainability vision to life. “In Melbourne, we have already electrified a significant portion of our aircraft pushback operations, covering nearly all aircraft types, including the A380. Additionally, we’ve invested in electric lower and main deck loaders and launched a substantial replacement program for baggage tractors in Australia and New Zealand, with new electric units set to arrive early next year,” Brad shares. “Overall, 58% of the motorised assets we ordered this year in the APAC region are electric, reflecting our strong commitment to sustainability and operational innovation.”
On the automation front, Swissport is making strides to integrate cutting-edge technology into its operations. “All new motorised assets interacting with aircraft are equipped with Aircraft Proximity Detection Systems (APDS), which guide GSE to dock with the aircraft door on the first attempt, reducing manoeuvring in crowded areas,” Brad explains. The company is also leveraging mobile devices for its asset management and maintenance software, allowing for streamlined field operations and faster resolution of service requests. “Daily pre-use GSE checks are to be conducted by the operations team directly using the app’s checklists and reporting the detected defects automatically as Service Requests in our system, so our technical teams take immediate action.”
The future of ground handling
Looking to the future, Brad envisions a transformation in ground handling operations. “We foresee ground handling operations increasingly relying on electric and interconnected GSE, with real-time data flowing to our teams and assets, enabling immediate action to improve safety and reduce operational costs,” he says. “Our focus will remain on eliminating aircraft damage and personnel injuries.”
Swissport’s efforts extend beyond electrification and automation—they represent a blueprint for how innovation and sustainability can redefine the aviation ground services industry. By addressing challenges, embracing collaboration, and consistently innovating, Swissport is not just adapting to the future of airport logistics—it’s shaping it. Under Brad Moore’s leadership, the company is setting new standards and paving the way for a greener and more efficient future in Asia Pacific and beyond.
This story was first published in the September-October 2024 issue of Payload Asia.
