Europe Airport Ground Handling Systems Market Trends

The aircraft handling segment is expected to have the highest growth in the European airport ground handling systems market during the forecast period. This is mainly due to the growing fleet of major airlines in the region, which has led to an increase in flight movements at various airports in the region. For managing the increasing aircraft operations, the need for advanced aircraft handling systems has increased. 

Major players are investing heavily in the research and development of products to provide advanced aircraft handling products as per safety norms. For instance, in October 2018, Fraport and Lufthansa co-tested a remote-controlled aircraft tug at Frankfurt Airport. The e-vehicle is smaller than many conventional tugs, and it can be stationed and charged in a fixed parking position. So, it is available for use at all times and avoids long travel distances between individual positions. It can manage between 30 and 50 pushback procedures without having to be charged, helping to limit emissions. 

Also, in December 2022, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for a transition to enhanced ground support equipment (Enhanced GSE) to improve safety and contain the cost of ground damage involving GSE. Enhanced GSE uses anti-collision and inching technology, improves vehicle control, and increases docking accuracy, all of which minimizes the risk of personnel injuries and damaging aircraft. The incorporation of such advanced technology solutions for aircraft handling may propel the growth of the segment in the coming years.