Implementation of Sustainable Practices in Ground Handling Operations for Business Aviation

Minimizing waste and pollution is another critical aspect of implementing sustainable practices in ground handling operations for sustainable business aviation. Sustainable ground handling practices can include reducing the use of hazardous materials, recycling programs, and implementing efficient waste management practices. Here are some examples of equipment and tools that can help minimize waste and pollution in ground handling operations.

Aircraft De-icing & Anti-icing Equipment 

Traditional deicing methods often involve the use of chemicals that can harm the environment. Sustainable practices in ground handling, such as using hot water or glycol-based fluids, can minimize environmental damage. New technology, consisting of infrared deicing structures, can lessen chemical utilization and energy consumption. Formate-primarily based fluids have a lower environmental impact and may be used at lower temperatures than conventional glycol-based fluids. Electrolyte fluids, which contain salts and may be electrically charged, have also been developed as an alternative to traditional fluids.

Ground Support Equipment (GSE) 

GSEs are essential tools for sustainable practices in ground handling, such as baggage tugs and aircraft loaders. Choosing low-emission or electric-powered GSE can help minimize pollution and reduce carbon emissions. Here are some examples of sustainable GSE practices and tool examples:

• GSE Powered by Electricity: GSE powered by electricity, such as Electric Baggage Tractors, Electric Belt Loaders, and Electric Tow Tractors, is an alternative to conventional diesel-powered devices. Electric GSE produces no emissions and is extensively quieter than traditional diesel-powered equipment.
• Hybrid GSE: Hybrid GSE, including Hybrid Ground Power Units (GPUs) and Hybrid Air Conditioning Units (ACUs), is a combination of electric and diesel-powered equipment. Hybrid GSE uses electric power during low load operations and diesel power during high load operations, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
• Ground Power Units (GPUs): Ground Power Units (GPUs) are used to provide electrical power to aircraft parked at the gate. Sustainable GPUs, such as Hybrid GPUs, Electric GPUs, and Solar-Powered GPUs, use advanced battery technologies, like lithium-ion batteries, to reduce emissions and noise levels.
• Air Conditioning Units (ACUs): Air Conditioning Units (ACUs) are used to provide air conditioning to aircraft parked at the gate. Sustainable ACUs, including Electric ACUs and Hybrid ACUs, use electric power and advanced cooling technologies, such as vortex tubes, to reduce energy consumption and emissions.

Electric-Powered Systems

Electric-powered systems also have significant importance instead of other sustainable practices in ground handling including minimizing waste and pollution, using sustainable fuels, and implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices.

• Battery-Powered Floor Aid System: Battery-powered floor support gadgets, such as Electric Luggage Trolleys and Electric Aircraft Tugs, can drastically lessen carbon emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered equipment. These vehicles can be recharged overnight and provide ample energy every day to maintenance operations.
• Electric Maintenance Stands: Electric Hydraulic Maintenance Stands and Battery-Operated Maintenance Platforms are eco-friendly alternatives to fuel-powered stands. These stands use energy to power hydraulic pumps and are designed to lessen emissions and improve electricity efficiency.
• LED Lighting: LED Apron Lighting and LED Hangar Lighting are electricity-saving alternatives to standard lighting fixtures. Changing traditional lighting systems with LED lights can appreciably reduce energy usage and carbon emissions.

Water Recycling Systems

Aircraft and ground handling equipment require water for cleaning and other purposes. Using water recycling systems can significantly reduce water usage and minimize wastewater discharge. The systems can filter and deal with wastewater to make it appropriate for reuse, decreasing the need for freshwater.

• Closed-Loop Water Recycling Systems: Closed-loop water recycling structures, often referred to as Closed Loop Filtration Systems or Closed Loop Water Jet Recycling Systems, seize and treat wastewater, which is then reused for non-potable functions, such as washing aircraft or cleaning equipment. These structures can reduce water consumption by up to 70% as well as decrease wastewater discharge into the surroundings.
• Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs): MBRs, also known as Membrane Bioreactor Systems, are a type of water treatment gadget that combines biological treatments with membrane filtration. The system removes contaminants from wastewater, producing high-quality water that can be reused in ground handling operations. MBRs can reduce water intake by up to 80% while also lowering wastewater discharge and associated pollution.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Structures: RO structures, commonly referred to as Reverse Osmosis Systems, use a semi-permeable membrane to eliminate dissolved solids and other contaminants from water. The system produces high-quality water that may be reused for non-potable functions. RO structures can reduce water intake by as much as 90% and additionally reduce wastewater discharge.
• Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Systems: These systems, also known as Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs), use microorganisms to break down organic matter in wastewater, generating water that can be reused in ground handling operations. These structures can reduce water intake by up to 60% and also lower wastewater discharge.

Biodegradable Materials

biodegradable substances, inclusive of packing materials, bags, and cups, can notably reduce waste and decrease pollution. Those substances break down quickly inside the surroundings, decreasing the effect of waste. Biodegradable materials are increasingly being used by corporations as part of their sustainability methods.

• Biodegradable Luggage: ground handling operations generate a massive quantity of waste, along with plastic luggage used for waste disposal. Biodegradable bags made from materials such as cornstarch can decompose naturally, decreasing the quantity of waste sent to landfills.
• Biodegradable Cleaning Products: Ground handling operations require regular cleaning of aircraft and airport facilities. Conventional cleaning products incorporate chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, but biodegradable cleaning products crafted from natural substances, such as citrus extracts and enzymes, can be used to clean aircraft and facilities appropriately and efficiently.

Additionally, there are numerous international standards that businesses can adhere to, including ISO 14001 environmental control. Adhering to these standards demonstrates a corporation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and affords a framework for imposing sustainable practices in floor management operations.

At Just Aviation, we understand the technical complexities and regulatory frameworks that govern sustainable ground handling practices. We are dedicated to identifying and attracting highly skilled professionals who are committed to promoting sustainable business aviation practices, including those with expertise in electric-powered equipment, sustainable fuel alternatives, and water recycling systems.