Currently, there is a great focus on sustainability in aviation. Many manufacturers offer ground handling equipment that is powered by sustainable energy (electric, hybrid, fuel-cell vehicles). The benefits of these technologies can be measured in terms of reduced CO₂ emissions and operational and maintenance cost savings. As further research on sustainable energy sources is conducted, we can expect that the transition from diesel-powered to greener GSE will start taking place gradually. There are several examples of airports where mixed ground fleets come into play. This model is likely to expand in the next few years. Measuring sustainability efforts is crucial to benchmarking a company’s goal attainment. Telemetry data helps to determine the CO₂ footprint of a single vehicle or a whole fleet. INFORM’s Green Optimization solution goes one step further. We analyze how the entire fleet can be used as efficiently as possible based on variables like vehicle planning and availability, charging times, planning of charging points, as well as environmental conditions.

Automation systems are no longer a futuristic concept. Aviation entities around the world are getting attracted by autonomous GSE vehicles as they may be the answer to current capacity challenges. In fact, they can play an important role in both supporting staff and addressing labor-related shortfalls. The trend to use this technology in ground operations is likely to continue growing. The challenge will be to effectively manage a blended workforce of autonomous vehicles and human resources. Optimization software is at the forefront in addressing this challenge.

In the field, we are collaborating closely with partners who provide a wide range of autonomous GSEs. They include indoor devices such as autonomous driving wheelchairs from the company Whill Inc., to multi-platform devices that can be used in different areas (e.g., cargo or luggage handling). By incorporating telematics, INFORM´s software delivers increased situational awareness and data transparency, with critical information accessible to the right staff, at the right time.

As the safety requirements at the trade fair are extremely high and the external conditions are different from those on the apron, this application cannot be presented. However, we will be happy to advise on this at our own booth.