Welcome to the Spring 2023 issue of Airside International.
This issue’s features consider the moves being made by ground power unit (GPU) manufacturers to meet the ever-increasing demand for more environmentally friendly power sources. This challenge is also facing suppliers of ambulifts – the subject of another of our features.

Complementing the GPU review is an interview with US-based Aviation Battery Systems, which offers the unique, portable, battery-powered StartStick GPU.
In a further feature, we talk to a couple of the big suppliers of emergency vehicles that are a vital – and obligatory – feature of any airport operation.
In an ‘Innovation in Airport Equipment’ special we meet with UK-based zero-emissions vehicle manufacturer Electra Commercial Vehicles, which offers bespoke, specialist electric vehicle solutions for airport applications.

Other suppliers that describe aspects of their latest offerings in these pages include Finland-based sustainable fuel specialist Neste, Brussels-based apron systems supplier ADB SAFEGATE and UK-based wireless communications specialist dBD Communications.
Another high-tech specialist, Targa Telematics, talks us through its airport telematics unit, which is “enabling the digitisation of airport processes, allowing operators to perform their tasks in a safer, more efficient and regulated manner”.

We cover the latest news from Brussels and Birmingham Airports and the vital contribution that handlers make to all airside operations is not forgotten, with word from Spain’s Iberia Airport Services and Grupo EULEN in the US.

We consider calls being made by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for the industry to improve ground support equipment as part of efforts to improve safety on the ramp. Finally, we look back at the important role that Magnus Johansson has played at Sweden-based aircraft tractor manufacturer Kalmar Motor and, indeed, his influence in the development of electric pushbacks on today’s airport ramps.