Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
Honolulu, Hawai’i
Electric Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
Background
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, is one of the busiest transportation hubs in the Pacific, serving millions of travelers annually and acting as a critical connector for both passenger and cargo flights.
As part of its long-term strategy to enhance operational efficiency and environmental performance, the airport is adopting sustainable infrastructure that reduces costs and lowers emissions for airline partners.
Challenge
Airlines at the airport have traditionally relied on diesel and propane-powered ground support equipment (GSE), such as towing tractors, belt loaders, and cargo tractors. These fuel-dependent systems contributed to high operational costs, air quality concerns, and a larger carbon footprint. A modern, efficient, and scalable solution was needed to improve sustainability while delivering cost savings and reliability for airline operations.
Project Description
Sustainability Partners (SP) partnered with Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to implement a comprehensive electric vehicle charging system designed specifically for Ground Support Equipment (GSE). The project includes six Webasto PosiCharge DVS-400 40kW systems strategically placed across two major areas of the airport, providing 26 charging ports for airline use.
Delivered under SP’s Infrastructure as a Service® model, this charging infrastructure ensures broad accessibility and supports multiple types of electric GSE, enabling airlines to transition away from fossil-fuel reliance without upfront capital costs.
Impact
By enabling airlines to transition to electric GSE, SP is helping Hawai‘i’s busiest airport reduce fuel costs, improve air quality, and enhance operational efficiency while demonstrating leadership in sustainable aviation practices.
- Operational Savings: Delta Airlines, the first carrier to adopt the system, reports estimated monthly savings of $25,000 in diesel and propane costs.
- Environmental Impact: By transitioning to electric GSE, airlines are reducing carbon emissions and cutting dependence on fossil fuels.
- Scalability: Other airline carriers are preparing to adopt electric GSE over the next 18 months, further expanding cost and environmental benefits across the airport
