Air Canada electrifies GSE fleet
April 7, 2025
Air Canada has announced that its ground operations in Québec City will become the airline’s first station in the country to fully electrify its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet by the end of 2025.
The move will see a complete transition from fossil fuel-powered machines to electric alternatives, covering baggage and ramp tractors, belt loaders, power stows, container loaders, and aircraft tractors.
The initiative forms part of Air Canada’s broader climate strategy, which includes mid-term targets of a 20% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from its air operations and a 30% cut from ground operations, both by 2030 and compared to 2019 levels.
“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.
“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.”
“The electrification of Air Canada’s ground operations at YQB represents a concrete and significant step in reducing the impact of airport ground activities on the environment,” said Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB.
“This project was made possible thanks to close collaboration between our teams, and is perfectly in line with our commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of our operations, as well as to provide the support and tools necessary for our airline partners to achieve their GHG reduction objectives.
“We are proud that YQB is the first Air Canada station to take this important step towards environmental sustainability.”
Air Canada has already made significant progress in electrifying its ground fleet nationwide. The airline currently operates more than 900 electric GSE units, representing 35% of its overall fleet.
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