Just in time for Earth Month, Air Canada has announced that its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) will be fully electrified by the end of 2025, a first for the airline.
"The focus of Earth Month 2025 is Renewable Energy and with Québec's renewable hydroelectric power, it is fitting that the city of Québec is our first fully electric capable station. This project demonstrates the successful collaboration between Air Canada and the YQB airport authority in developing the necessary charging infrastructure to support the transition to a zero direct emission electric GSE (eGSE) fleet powered by Québec's renewable energy grid," said Michael Rousseau, President and CEO at Air Canada.
The transition will eliminate Air Canada's use of fossil fuel equipment for all baggage and ramp tractors, belt loaders, power stows, container loaders and aircraft tractors at this station.
According to Air Canada, this is a step forward toward achieving its climate-related ambition that sets out mid-term targets in support of its long-term aspirational goal of net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
"Achieving the clean energy transition for aviation will require collaboration and efforts from all stakeholders. We accept our role as Canada's flag carrier, and acknowledge that aviation plays a critical role in global connectivity and socio-economic growth. We are committed to a coordinated approach for this long-term energy transition as we operate within an ecosystem of manufacturers, suppliers, airports, and governments, all of whom play an integral part in this important initiative," Mr. Rousseau continued.
"Québec City is delighted with this initiative, which makes our airport the first Air Canada station in the country to electrify its main ground support equipment. This transition testifies to the commitment of our institutions and companies to innovate while taking into account current and future energy concerns. We are proud to see YQB, a strategic hub, support the evolution of the air transport industry and actively participate in initiatives aimed at reducing our environmental footprint," adds Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City.
Over the last several years, Air Canada has been retiring and replacing older fossil-fuel powered ground equipment across Canada with more efficient electric ground equipment. The airline now has more than 900 pieces of eGSE equipment, representing 35% of the GSE fleet across all categories. Air Canada continues to work closely with the manufacturers to evaluate emerging technologies that come to market.
The new electric equipment is expected to lower maintenance and spare part costs, and eliminate direct fuel costs, contributing to overall cost savings for Air Canada.
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