Airports across Europe are under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and accelerate the transition away from fossil-fuel-powered ground operations. New EU initiatives tied to AFIF funding and TEN-T infrastructure development are helping drive investments in cleaner airport technologies.
But while fixed gate infrastructure remains central to long-term electrification strategies, many airports face a practical challenge:
How do you reduce emissions while maintaining operational flexibility across remote stands, temporary gates, and peak traffic periods?
This is where the ITW GSE 3500 Mobile PCA becomes highly relevant.
Reducing Aircraft APU Emissions During Turnaround
Reducing aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) usage is one of the most effective ways airports can lower CO₂ emissions, fuel burn, and apron noise.
Pre-conditioned air (PCA) units help achieve this by supplying cooled or heated air directly to parked aircraft, allowing the aircraft APU to remain switched off during turnaround operations.
However, not every stand has fixed PCA infrastructure installed — and upgrading every gate can be both costly and time-consuming.
The ITW GSE 3500 Mobile PCA offers a flexible solution that supports immediate emission reductions without requiring major infrastructure changes.
Flexible Ground Support Equipment for Modern Airport Operations
Airport operations constantly change. Aircraft parking positions shift, seasonal traffic fluctuates, and remote stands are often used during peak periods.
A mobile PCA solution allows airports and ground handlers to adapt quickly while supporting sustainability targets.
The ITW GSE 3500 Mobile PCA can easily be deployed where cooling or heating is needed most, helping airports:
- Reduce unnecessary APU runtime
- Improve passenger comfort during boarding and turnaround
- Support operations at remote stands
- Extend PCA coverage without large infrastructure investments
- Adapt to changing operational demands
This flexibility becomes increasingly valuable as airports work toward stricter environmental requirements and long-term decarbonization goals.
Supporting Sustainable Airport Development
Across the aviation industry, airports are increasingly investing in cleaner gate technologies to support carbon reduction initiatives and improve operational efficiency. ITW GSE has seen growing global demand for environmentally friendly ground support solutions as airports move away from diesel-powered equipment.
Sustainability is also deeply aligned with ITW’s long-term strategy and commitment to reducing environmental impact through innovation and clean-tech solutions.
The ITW GSE 3500 Mobile PCA supports this transition by enabling airports to take practical steps toward cleaner apron operations today — while preparing for the infrastructure demands of tomorrow.
To learn more about ITW GSE’s approach to sustainable and efficient gate operations, visit:
