Swissport's Electrifying Transformation: Driving Sustainable Ground Support

Swissport International, a leading global provider of ground handling and cargo services, is making a bold move towards a greener future. The company has announced a comprehensive plan to significantly increase its investment in electric Ground Support Equipment (eGSE), with the goal of achieving a 55% eGSE fleet by 2032. This strategic shift not only aligns with Swissport's commitment to sustainability but also supports the environmental objectives of its airline partners.

Powering a Sustainable Future, One Tarmac at a Time

Electrifying the Fleet: A Phased Approach

Swissport's newly adopted procurement policy is a game-changer in the industry. Starting January 2025, the company will only order electric versions of various vehicle categories, including baggage transport, conveyor belts, mobile staircases, forklifts, and service vehicles. This decisive move demonstrates Swissport's unwavering dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and paves the way for a more sustainable future in ground handling operations.By 2027, Swissport aims to procure only electric GSE, subject to the availability of the required equipment and the development of sufficient charging infrastructure at airports. This ambitious timeline underscores the company's commitment to accelerating its transition to a zero-emission fleet, a critical step in aligning with the growing environmental concerns of the aviation industry.

Investing in a Greener Future

Swissport's investment in its electric fleet is no small feat. The company has pledged to invest over a billion euros over the next ten years to transform its ground support equipment. This substantial financial commitment demonstrates Swissport's unwavering dedication to sustainability and its desire to lead the industry in the adoption of clean energy solutions.Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "Swissport reaffirms its goal to continuously increase the proportion of electric, zero-emission ground support equipment. Our strong commitment to sustainability and clean energy also supports airlines' ESG goals and reduces their supply chain emissions."

Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges

While Swissport is making significant strides in electrifying its fleet, the company acknowledges the challenges posed by the lack of adequate charging infrastructure at airports. Warwick Brady urges regulators and IATA to prioritize the installation of standardized charging connectors and protocols, as well as to require airports to provide a minimum number of electrifiable GSE parking spaces.Despite these infrastructure constraints, Swissport is leading by example. At Zurich Airport (ZRH), the company currently operates with 44% electric GSE and is set to reach 55% by the end of 2025. At Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), Swissport has invested 2.5 million Euros in electric assets and plans to transition its entire motorized GSE fleet to electric soon, with all cars used on the apron to be electric by December 2024.

Aligning with Airlines' Sustainability Goals

Swissport's electrification initiative not only benefits the company's own environmental footprint but also supports the sustainability goals of its airline partners. By reducing the carbon emissions associated with ground handling operations, Swissport is helping airlines achieve their own Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets, creating a more sustainable ecosystem within the aviation industry.Warwick Brady emphasizes the importance of this alignment, stating, "Our strong commitment to sustainability and clean energy also supports airlines' ESG goals and reduces their supply chain emissions." This collaborative approach ensures that the benefits of Swissport's electrification efforts extend beyond its own operations, contributing to the broader industry's sustainability objectives.