We talk to a number of the big de-icing vehicle manufacturers, as well as suppliers of ground power units, tugs and tractors, to get their take on how the industry has changed as a result of the pandemic and what the future might hold.

Innovation is key to success in GSE development. We take a look at Power Stow’s helpful Transfer Belt and the very different TaxiBot aircraft tug that is undertaking tests at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, while also already in operational use in India.

Tecnove by Jofrauto’s disinfectant truck is an example of innovation directly inspired by the pandemic, while David O’Connell, managing director of dBD Communications, has not only ensured that his company has continued to sell well in these challenging times but is also doing his bit for the local community.

Airside speaks to MC Solutions about its new airfield ground lighting failure response testing equipment, to a new aviation consultancy called Airport Operations and to a charitable start-up named Aviation Action that is available to help anyone in aviation that has suffered during the crisis of the past few months.

We get the latest from GSE manufacturer CIMC Air Marrel, as well as from suppliers HiSERV, Rushlift, Shell Aviation and IT specialist hoopo. Plus. We chat with dnata’s regional CEO for the Asia-Pacific region, Dirk Goovaerts, to gain an insight into how one of the world’s biggest handlers is coping with the challenges that Covid-19 has thrown up.

We hope you enjoy the issue.