State-of-the-art ground support equipment (GSE) matters a lot to airport handlers. They rely on them for many tasks, including aircraft refueling, parking, repair, towing, overhaul, and maintenance. They also rely on GSE to transport passengers’ languages during boarding and deboarding. Therefore picking the right ground support equipment is important for airport handlers to ensure effective operation and safety. This guide will discuss what airport professionals should evaluate when choosing ground support equipment.

Operational needs

Airport professionals must first assess operational needs when looking for GSE, such as aircraft tugs for sale. Not all airports or airstrips are similar, so they must consider their environmental requirements and other operation needs. The location of the equipment deployment, the intended use, and the frequency of use all come into play during the decision-making process. For instance, if aircraft maintenance occurs in remote areas, self-contained or portable GSE can go a long way in ensuring efficiency. Additionally, towing over long distances may require robust and durable tow tractors.

Type of aircraft

The next important aspect to evaluate is the aircraft type. As you may already know, not all aircraft are built the same, and maintenance requirements differ significantly. Different aircraft have different features, and others demand specialized GSE equipment. Airport professionals should assess size, configuration, weight, and type. For instance, it is quite evident that a large commercial airplane will require a large maintenance stand and a heavy-duty tow tractor, while a smaller private plane will do with an adaptable maintenance platform.

Compliance and Safety

Safety and compliance are critical considerations when choosing GSE. This is to ensure employee and passenger safety during airport operations. Airport handlers should consider safety elements like non-slip coatings, reliable locking mechanisms, and ergonomic designs. Moreover, the chosen GSE equipment should comply with all legal and industry safety standards. It is advisable to look for certificates such as the CE marking or adherence to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements.

Compatibility with existing systems

The airport already has existing systems in place to support ground support equipment. Therefore, keep the existing infrastructure in mind when investing in GSE. Assess the equipment’s ability to smoothly connect with the fleet in place, such as the power and aircraft docking systems. Also, consider the equipment’s capacity to be modified to meet changing requirements. Long-term flexibility and cost-effectiveness are achievable by selecting modular or adaptable equipment that can be easily modified or expanded.

The budget

Budget considerations play a significant role in the selection process. It’s crucial to establish a balance between budget and quality. Establish your available budget and look at your options inside that area. Other than the initial purchase price, ongoing maintenance costs exist. Compare the expenses of maintenance and warranties and the pricing offered by other suppliers. Purchasing high-quality equipment may result in long-term cost savings due to lowered maintenance needs and improved operational effectiveness.