Swissport conducts E-Turnaround in Geneva

Swissport conducted a complete E-turnaround for a Brussels Airlines aircraft at Geneva Airport on January 29, 2024. This operation utilized only electrically powered ground support equipment (GSE). This marks a first step in Switzerland and underscores Swissport’s commitment to decarbonizing ground operations. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and plans to electrify 55% of its global GSE fleet by 2032.

The E-turnaround included all aspects of ground handling, including passenger boarding and deboarding, baggage and cargo handling, as well as aircraft maintenance. By using electrically powered equipment such as baggage tugs, pushback tractors, passenger boarding stairs, and conveyor belt loaders, Swissport was able to reduce CO2 emissions and ensure a smooth operation of ground services. The measures aim to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance with safety regulations.

Investments in Eco-Friendly Operations

Swissport continuously invests in the electrification of its GSE fleet to reduce environmental impact. At Geneva Airport, over 60% of the GSE fleet is already electric, including all baggage tugs and more than half of the baggage belt loaders, ground power units, passenger boarding stairs, and vehicles. Since 2024, Swissport has invested more than 3 million CHF in electric ground support equipment at Geneva Airport.

Bruno Stefani, CEO of Swissport for Switzerland, Italy, and France, stated: “As a leading provider of ground handling services, we are actively committed to the decarbonization of air transport. In Switzerland, we are pioneers, as more than 50% of our GSE fleet is already electrified. Through close collaboration with our partners, airlines, and airport infrastructure providers, every step towards the electrification of our fleet contributes to reducing emissions and supports a more sustainable future for air transport.”

Scientifically Based Emission Reduction Targets

Swissport’s emissions reduction targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), provide a solid foundation for achieving net zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement. The company is actively investing in the electrification of its GSE fleet, with currently 26% of the global motorized fleet of approximately 14,600 units being fully electric. The goal is to reach 55% by 2032. Swissport is also actively participating in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) to support transparent environmental reporting in the aviation industry. Furthermore, Swissport has received the EcoVadis Platinum Medal for the second consecutive year, highlighting the company’s position as the only aviation services provider worldwide to achieve this recognition for sustainability performance, placing it in the top 1% of companies rated globally.

www.swissport.com