AirAsia’s ‘APU Off’ programme to reduce ground emissions at airports
AirAsia has announced an initiative to reduce carbon emissions at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 2 through the deployment of ground support technology.
The carrier is introducing combo units from Smart Airport Systems (SAS), which combine the functionality of a ground power unit (GPU) with an air conditioning unit (ACU), enabling efficient power and air-cooling for stationary aircraft, which reduces reliance on the aircraft’s Jet A1-powered auxiliary power unit (APU).
Typically, aircraft on the ground use their APUs to maintain power and conditioned air. However, APUs are costly and contribute to CO2 emissions. AirAsia’s integration of SAS combo units is projected to reduce APU-related costs and CO2 emissions by up to 90% with optimal usage, which will cut the airline’s Scope 1 emissions from ground operations.
YB Loke Siew Fook, minister of transport, said: “I commend AirAsia for being the first airline in Malaysia to adopt the combo units. This is among in-sector solutions that airlines can already undertake to reduce carbon emissions and enhance efficiency at our airports as highlighted in the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint.
“As APU emissions make up 12% of reported airport emissions, today’s launch represents a significant step towards tackling on-ground emissions.
“I hope to see all airlines and ground handling operators adopt this technological innovation as a new benchmark to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in sustainable aviation.”
Kesavan Sivanandam, chief airport and customer experience officer of AirAsia Aviation Group, said: “These energy-efficient combo units unlock a major opportunity for airlines like AirAsia to decarbonise because we operate in countries with high humidity.
“Previously, we had been unable to make the switch because conventional GPUs lack cabin cooling functions which are necessary for the comfort of our guests.”
Amaury Papillault, regional director of SAS, said: “For more than 20 years SAS has been a pioneer in the implementation of effective APU OFF initiatives and we are delighted to partner with AirAsia on its journey to reduce its carbon footprint on the ground.
“The airline community has long recognised the role that turning off APUs can play in effectively reducing aircraft ground emissions. With these easy-to-deploy combo units, cutting APU emissions becomes a low-hanging fruit that all airlines can adopt as part of their decarbonisation programmes.”
