On May 9, 2024, Tamagawa Aero Systems Co., Ltd. (TAS) and Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) launched the lithium-ion battery-powered ground power unit “eGPU” at Matsuyama Airport. This marks JAL’s first adoption of this technology, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and noise pollution. Aircraft typically use an auxiliary power unit (APU) to supply necessary electricity and air conditioning while parked. However, APUs produce significant exhaust gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), and noise. To address environmental impacts at airports and reduce aviation fuel consumption during parking, electric power and air conditioning have been traditionally provided by diesel engine-powered ground power units (GPU). The introduction of the “eGPU” will eliminate CO2 emissions and reduce noise levels by approximately 30% (below 65db) compared to conventional methods. This improvement is expected to enhance the working environment for operators, mitigate noise and environmental issues around airports, and support global environmental preservation. Manufactured by ITW GSE, the “eGPU” units can continuously supply electricity for approximately 14 flights during the turnaround time of a Boeing 737-800 aircraft on a full charge and have been deployed in over 400 units worldwide. Japan Airlines (JAL) has been investigating the use of “eGPU” units at domestic airports to support CO2 emission reduction efforts in airport facilities and vehicles, in line with the initiatives set by the Civil Aviation Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. As part of the JAL Group, Japan Air Commuter (JAC) began using “eGPUs” at seven airports—Tanegashima, Yakushima, Kikaijima, Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Okinoerabujima, and Yoron—in March 2023. Additionally, Hokkaido Air System (HAC) implemented “eGPU” operations at three airports—Sapporo Okadama, Rishiri, and Okushiri—in March 2024. In expanding “eGPU” deployment at airports in Japan, challenges such as installing charging infrastructure and securing AC power sources for use with jet aircraft were addressed. At Matsuyama Airport, this issue was resolved by converting power plugs used for snowplow vehicle heaters, facilitating the introduction of the “eGPU”. This implementation is expected to pave the way for further deployments at other airports, leveraging the knowledge gained from this experience. JAL and TAS remain committed to contributing to global environmental preservation and continuing efforts toward a more sustainable aviation industry.
JAL and TAS Launch Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Ground Power Unit at Matsuyama Airport
