Following successful proof of concept trials in September 2024, easyJet is set to roll out its full implementation of Project APU-ZERO by May 2025, aiming to reduce fuel, carbon emissions, and noise pollutions at its Milan Malpensa Airport base.
For the trial project, easyJet switched off the auxiliary power units (APUs) of its aircraft and instead used a pre-conditioning unit (PCA), a process which saw positive results when it was tested on 57 aircraft operating in and out of Milan Malpensa during testing.
Typically, APUs provide electrical power and air conditioning to aircraft during turnaround processes and help to start engines during the taxiing stage, but when stationary they use considerable fuel, contributing to more noise pollution and carbon emissions.
Instead, PCAs are a mobile ground support equipment solution that use the fixed electrical ground power (FEGP) provided by the airport terminal during turnaround, by connecting to the system when at the gate.
EasyJet has been rolling out the new solution gradually since September. In total, it will deploy 16 PCA units at the northern Italian base, with six units being added in March, another six in April, and the remaining four in May.
The airline estimates the rollout will save 1,150 tonnes of fuel and reduce carbon emissions by around 3,600 tonnes annually at Milan Malpensa, as well as create a cleaner and quieter ground environment for both staff and passengers.
In 2022, the airline launched its plan to decarbonise its operations and has since continued to invest in several operational efficiencies to help lower its impact in both the air and the ground.
Lahiru Ranasinghe, director of sustainability at easyJet, said: “At easyJet we take a holistic approach to reducing our impact in the air and on the ground. This trial, part of our operational efficiencies workstream, resulted in fuel and emissions savings and a reduction in noise, without affecting our operation.”
Together with its partners, TCR, PCA manufacturer Guinault, ground-handling partner Menzies Aviation, and the support of SEA Milan Airports, easyJet is taking a step toward fulfilling its sustainability mission.
Katy Reid, head of sustainability and corporate responsibility at Menzies Aviation, commented: “This also highlights the strength of collaboration between airlines, airports and aviation services to reduce emissions from ground operations during aircraft turns and what can be achieved when partners support each other on their journey to meeting our aligned sustainability goals.”
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