Archives

New Terminal One at JFK issues RFPs for handling services

Picture credit: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Picture credit: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport has issued Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to provide handling services at the terminal.

The terminal, which is scheduled to open next year and serve international flights, has issued two RFPs, one for above the wing services and one for below the wing services.

New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK, which will include two new terminals, the modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation centre and an entirely new, simplified road network.

Above the wing service providers will support guests in the terminal by providing baggage and check-in services, boarding and flight escort, operating the Baggage Service Office, assisting passengers in the re-check area, meeting arriving flights and assisting during irregular operations.

Below the wing service providers will be required to provide fully trained and experienced labour service, offer safe, smooth and efficient operations for airlines, passengers, service providers and other stakeholders, and utilise electric GSE for aircraft servicing and support.

Marisa Von Wieding, Vice President of Operations at New Terminal One, said: “The selected providers will be instrumental in setting new standards for airport operations and maintaining the New Terminal One’s position as a global leader in the aviation industry.”

Interested parties are asked to contact procurement@onejfk.com for further information about the RFPs and have until 26 March 2025 to submit their proposals.

dnata turns Orlando airport into “Station of Tomorrow”

dnata Orlando airport Station of Tomorrow resizeddnata has unveiled the “Station of Tomorrow” at Orlando International Airport, introducing the latest technologies across operations to enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability.

The Orlando station sets new standards for ground handling in the USA with dnata’s $3 million investment including a fully electric GSE fleet along with a range of advanced passenger services, telematics, resource management, virtual training and anti-collision systems.

The project is designed to foster economic growth deliver benefits to local businesses and communities by strengthening the local aviation sector.

dnata’s partners in the project include Lufthansa Group, Oshkosh AeroTech, Evitado Technologies and AVIAR.

David Barker, Regional CEO for Americas at dnata, said: “We are proud to invest in Orlando, the home of dnata’s USA Headquarters, and lead the way in shaping the future of ground handling. This initiative aligns with our commitment to implementing practical, scalable solutions that enhance operational performance, safety, and service quality for our airline partners and their passengers.”

He added that dnata is committed to implementing the model across its 22 locations in the USA.

Jörg Mnich, Vice President Commercial Airport Agreements at Lufthansa Group, said: “Especially having Discover Airlines as launching customer at the “Station of Tomorrow” in MCO experiencing this big step in technology development shows the spirit of the partnership that has been established over the past years. We are keen to see the deployment of the tools and equipment to other joint stations across the network in due time.”

Lars Michael Wendel, Nominated Person Ground Operations at Discover Airlines, added: “With the ‘Station of Tomorrow,’ Discover Airlines can offer our customers a new experience that combines efficient technological processes and environmental aspects. We are particularly excited about the new E-GSE and the anti-collision system, which make the turnaround more environmentally friendly and meet the airlines’ high safety standards.”

In Orlando, dnata will operate a fleet of 14 electric GSE units including cargo loaders, pushbacks, bag tugs and belt loaders.

The passenger journey will be enhanced with check-in and baggage kiosks, baggage drop points and conveyor belt management systems to improve the passenger experience and minimise waiting times.

The ground handling system utilises a single digital platform to streamline operations, managing all aspects of ground handling processes from planning and scheduling to execution and reporting.

Advanced telematics systems will monitor real-time equipment usage and performance, enabling data-driven decision-making to reduce downtime and optimise operational efficiency.

The telematics solution ensures that drivers are fully trained and qualified via a direct link to dnata’s Learning Management System.

Virtual reality training complements classroom lessons, featuring scenario-based simulations in a zero-risk environment to build confidence and ensure safe, high-quality service.

The resource management system will optimise workforce and equipment allocation to keep operations agile and make sure resources are utilised efficiently.

AI-powered tools will enhance monitoring capabilities, ensuring safety, accuracy and operational oversight across baggage and ramp operations.

Collision avoidance systems will be implemented to mitigate risks through actionable data insights, enhancing safety and efficiency in ground towing operations.

LACC to build courier terminal at Carrasco airport

Render Terminal Courier_LACC resizedLatin America Cargo City (LACC) will transform the old passenger terminal at Carrasco International Airport into a courier terminal to handle e-commerce cargo.

More than $10 million will be invested in constructing a new building covering more than 5,000 square metres to expand operational capacity and consolidate LACC’s position as a logistics hub for Uruguay.

Bruno Guella, General Manager of LACC, says, “The investment will improve infrastructure, operational capacity and services, and therefore will have a direct and positive impact, both on the experience of courier companies and on the end customer of international e-commerce, who will have access to a simpler and more agile process.”

The building will have space for courier operations, new flight reception areas and loading areas for vans and lorries, providing capacity to respond to demand.

Equipment and technology in the building will include vertical warehouses for automated storage of packages and cold rooms with varying temperature ranges.

Individual areas will be made available to customers who require exclusive operations.

There will also be corporate offices and multipurpose rooms among other capacities.

The project responds to rising e-commerce shipments arriving in Uruguay with official Customs figures reporting a 170% increase in the number of shipments during the second half of 2024 compared to 2023.

Guella says, “Globally, there has been a notable increase in e-commerce products, and Uruguay is no stranger to this trend. This has been an unprecedented challenge for the different airports in the world, which are committed to solutions of various types to address this reality.”

The courier terminal will have dedicated staff and operate 24/7/365 and benefit from the integration of Customs, companies and other organisations that work in the sector.

Work will start next month (February 2025) with construction of the new building starting mid-2025 with the aim of inaugurating the building in the second half of 2026.

Mallaghan CT6000E makes debut at Boston Logan Airport

Mallaghan electric catering truck resizedMallaghan has delivered the first fully electric refrigerated catering truck at Boston Logan International Airport.

The CT6000E, which will be operated by catering company DO & CO, was unveiled in Boston during a ceremony attended by Governor Maura Healey, State Representative Adrian Madaro and Boston City Councillor Gabriela Coletta-Zopata.

The catering truck is the result of a collaboration between Mallaghan and International Motors, which is powered by an electric powertrain, eliminating tailpipe emissions, reducing noise pollution and aligning with efforts to reduce the carbon footprint from GSE.

Joe Griffith, Chief Commercial Officer of Mallaghan, said: “The CT6000E not only reinforces our commitment to innovation and sustainability but also supports our partners in their pursuit of greener, safer and more efficient operations.”

The CT6000E features new technologies to improve efficiency and safety including an advanced aircraft-controlled approach system to reduce aircraft damage, a 360 degree Birds Eye camera system with an onboard hard drive and on-board telemetry.

Debbie Shust, Vice President of Customer Insights and Experience at International Motors, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Mallaghan to introduce the first fully electric aircraft catering truck in North America—a testament to what’s possible through purposeful collaboration centred around helping customers reach their goals. This innovative zero-emissions vehicle highlights our commitment to delivering products and services that meet each customer’s unique needs.”

TCR to provide New Terminal One with pooled eGSE

TCR eGSE fleet for New Terminal One resized

TCR will provide the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport with a centralised fleet of electric GSE, which will be pooled by ground handlers.

The new terminal, which is scheduled to open next year, will be the first airport terminal in the world to procure a centralised all-electric GSE fleet, which will be shared by ground handlers.

The shared model is designed to reduce environmental impact, improve costs and optimise equipment usage in contrast to the conventional model where ground handlers individually own or lease their own equipment.

The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK airport, which includes two new terminals, the modernisation and expansion of two existing terminals, a new ground transportation centre and a new, simplified road network.

Operating the electric GSE fleet through the pooling model is a key part of New Terminal One’s sustainability strategy, which supports the Port Authority’s goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its airports and facilities by 2050.

Jennifer Aument, CEO of New Terminal One, said: “We are delighted to partner with TCR on this innovative collaboration for all-electric ground support equipment, which will contribute to seamless operations for our partner airlines and a best-in-class experience for their customers.”

Kristof Philips, CEO of TCR Airport Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to contribute to this groundbreaking initiative. This project highlights our dedication to sustainability and innovation, setting a worldwide model for the aviation industry.”

TCR’s electric GSE fleet integrates advanced fleet management technology to provide real-time data to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making.

The pooling model is designed will reduce emissions as electric equipment eliminates tailpipe emissions and improves air quality, provides cost efficiencies by minimising equipment redundancy, and electric GSE reduces overall energy consumption.

TCR says the pooling model makes it easier for ground handlers to participate in competitive bids as they will only provide the manpower operate GSE without having the purchase their own equipment.

Air India awards multiple contracts to SATS and WFS

Members of the SATS WFS and Air India teams resizedAir India has awarded SATS and its wholly-owned subsidiary Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) contracts at major airports in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

The airline renewed 11 contracts and awarded 14 new contracts for ground and cargo handling services after a global tendering process.

The new stations include Chicago, Washington Dulles, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Frankfurt, Milan, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.

Bob Chi, CEO Gateway Services APAC at SATS, said: “Our extensive capabilities and global network, along with the exceptional service our teams provide, uniquely position us to offer unparalleled international coverage to our airline partners. We highly value our partnership with Air India and are excited to represent the airline at these locations.”

Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo at Air India, added: “Streamlining our logistics processes and enhancing service levels across passengers and cargo are instrumental to the ongoing transformation of Air India. By strengthening our partnership with SATS and WFS, we look forward to delivering a world-class operation for our customers around the world.”

Nair to succeed Durst as President of Oshkosh AeroTech

Oshkosh AeroTech leadership transition resizedRanjit Nair will succeed Chuck Durst as President of Oshkosh AeroTech, who will retire in March 2025.

Nair has more than 20 years of experience in the heavy-duty equipment space.

He joins Oshkosh from Epiroc, which recently acquired Stanley Black & Decker’s Infrastructure business where he served as President of Stanley Infrastructure.

Prior to working at Stanley Black & Decker, Nair worked for Deere & Company in roles across the US and globally, including Vice President of Global Supply Management and as CEO of John Deere India.

John Pfeifer, President and CEO of Oshkosh Corporation, said: “We are confident that Ranjit’s strategic vision and collaborative approach will accelerate our growth, both domestically and internationally. We also want to extend our gratitude to Chuck Durst for his many contributions to the company, which have been instrumental in positioning Oshkosh AeroTech for future success.”

Nair added: “With a strong commitment to a people-first culture, Oshkosh delivers market-leading innovations across a diversified range of end markets. I’m excited to work with the team to advance its offerings for the aviation industry, while delivering exceptional customer value.”

SAASA invests $4.2m in GSE from TLD

TLD TMX-150 SAASA resizedServicios Aeroportuarios Andinos (SAASA) has invested $4.2 million in 30 pieces of GSE supplied by TLD.

The first 20 units worth $2.2 million will be delivered this year and the remaining 10 units worth $2 million will be delivered next year.

SAASA has taken delivery of the first unit, a TWT NB/TMX-150-15 tugboat and will receive eight JST-25-LPG tractors, two TPX-200-MTX B777 towbarless tugs, a lower deck TXL-838-WID diesel loader with ASD, three AERO 2001104 motorised ladders, three 90 KVA GPU-409-E-CUP power plants, one 140 KVA GPU-414-E-CUP power plants and one ASU-600-270-DUP pneumatic starter.

Next year, SAASA will receive three NBL-E-MK2-HIS hybrid conveyor belts, two NBL-LPG conveyor belts with ASD, a TMX-450-50 TWT WB tug, three TXL-838-WID lower deck hybrid lodgers with ASD, and an ACU-802S-CUP air conditioner.

Enrique Vargas, CEO of SAASA, said: “At SAASA we are very satisfied with this acquisition. They are state-of-the-art equipment, with high definition in aspects such as telemetry and approach sensors, as is the case of the loaders and escalators, which helps the safety of aircraft.”

Garsite adds catering trucks to GSE range

Garsite catering truck resizedGarsite has added catering trucks to its ground support equipment range.

The catering truck is built on a Ford 750 Regular Cab chassis with a PTO-driven hydraulic pump, a 7,000-pound capacity scissor lift, telescopic hydraulic cylinders and an integrated control station.

Freightliner and Navistar chassis options are also available.

Terry Bosserman Jr, Chief Commercial Officer of Garsite, said: “We have been slowly expanding our line of ground service equipment to reflect the needs of our industry, and we are confident that the addition of our catering truck will help to position us as a leading GSE provider.”

The 16-foot insulated van body offers optional refrigeration and a customisable forward service platform available in fixed, two-way or four-way configurations.

A camera system with LCD and alternate platforms such as a narrow body door and a 21-foot frame are also options.

Embrace intelligent GSE, says Aurrigo CEO

Picture credit: Leif Piechowski

Picture credit: Leif Piechowski

The CEO of Aurrigo International has urged the ground handling industry to embrace intelligent GSE to transform operations.

Professor David Keene created the term intelligent GSE to describe his vision for a suite of advanced, integrated technologies to enhance operational performance and streamline airside activities.

Adopting smart airside solutions will help the industry reduce turnaround times, improve reliability and cut its environmental footprint.

Keene said: “As we move into a new era of airside operations, it is imperative that we harness advanced technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The future belongs to those who will lead the charge in reimagining how ground handling is performed.”

Automation is an area where iGSE can help by minimising human errors and enhancing operational speed.

Data analytics can provide real-time data to optimise resource allocation and improve decision-making processes.

Integrating eco-friendly practices into ground support operations will help with sustainability by reducing emissions and supporting global goals.

Keene said: “This is not just about technology; it’s about transforming our industry to better serve airlines, passengers, and the planet. Who will be the first GSE to transition to an iGSE approach?”

1 2 3 4 … 33