CO₂ emissions arise not only from aircraft operations but also from activities performed on the ground. At FLYINGGROUP, we recognize that reducing our environmental impact requires a comprehensive approach that addresses emissions across all aspects of our operation. As part of our commitment to responsible business practices and continuous improvement, we are actively implementing practical measures to reduce our environmental footprint wherever possible. Consequently, our sustainability efforts place a strong focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of our ground handling activities.
One of the most important steps in this effort has been the complete replacement of our fleet of fuel-powered towing vehicles with fully electric alternatives. By transitioning entirely to electric towing equipment, FLYINGGROUP has significantly reduced the use of fossil fuels during ground operations while maintaining the high levels of reliability and performance required for business aviation activities. Our current fleet includes three LEKTRO tow tractors, one TowFLEXX, and one Best Tug at our Antwerp headquarters. In addition, a Mototok is deployed at our Paris office and a Towtug is operated at our Kortrijk office. These electric towing vehicles support daily aircraft movements while eliminating the direct emissions associated with traditional fuel-powered equipment
In addition, FLYINGGROUP has also invested extensively in 9 electric Ground Power Units (GPUs), which play an important role in reducing fuel consumption and emissions while aircraft are on the ground. GPUs provide power for lighting, avionics, air conditioning, and other onboard systems, reducing the need to run the aircraft’s Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), which consumes fuel and generates emissions. By using electric ground-based power sources whenever possible, we help lower our environmental impact and minimize noise pollution at the airport.
Our commitment to sustainable ground operations also extends to aircraft maintenance activities. Within the FLYINGGROUP maintenance department, electric ground support equipment is used to perform a variety of operational tasks efficiently and safely. This equipment includes an electric forklift and an electric scissor lift, both of which contribute to reducing fuel consumption, local emissions and noise pollution within maintenance facilities and on the airport apron. These investments reflect our broader strategy of integrating more sustainable technologies into our day-to-day operations while ensuring that operational effectiveness and safety remain uncompromised.
The transition to electric ground support equipment represents an important step in the ongoing modernization of FLYINGGROUP’s ground operations. By investing in innovative technologies and sustainable infrastructure, we continue to strengthen our operational capabilities while preparing for the evolving expectations of the aviation industry. These investments reflect our commitment to practical and achievable sustainability improvements and demonstrate our ongoing efforts to integrate more environmentally responsible practices into our daily operations.
