Skytanking has introduced bespoke electric high-flow hydrant fuel dispensers at Brussels Airport, revolutionizing the fueling process for aircraft. These dispensers, equipped with a cutting-edge electrical chassis, arrived on April 26, signifying a significant leap forward in reducing local environmental impacts. Their silent operation and zero-emission design represent a crucial step towards a greener aviation industry.
Brussels Airport, committed to sustainability through its EU Green Deal initiative, the Stargate project, is actively seeking innovative solutions to make the airport industry more eco-friendly. In 2022, as part of this project, Skytanking conducted rigorous testing with two fully electric hydrant fuel dispensers. These vehicles, initially powered by diesel, underwent a transformation in Belgium, incorporating components from Turkish Fuel Services. The testing phase focused on evaluating their energy consumption, taking into account factors such as aircraft type, movement distances within the airport, and varying weather conditions.
Following these trials, Skytanking collaborated with Atcomex BV and Fuso to develop these fully electric hydrant fuel dispensers. Designed on a universally adaptable electric chassis, these units meet stringent safety standards and are poised for widespread adoption across global aviation platforms.
“These electric hydrant fuel dispensers are state-of-the-art and custom-made, adapted with the insights provided by the tests,” says Skytanking President Amir Ibrahim. “The new vehicles use at least two times less energy than the equipment tested last year, actively contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions and noise, making them environmentally friendly and user-friendly, which is important for both, the local environment and for the ground handling staff.”
“The goal of the Stargate project is to investigate new technologies and innovations that can make the entire European airport and aviation industry more sustainable,” says Sylvie Van den Eynde, Chief HR & Corporate Affairs Officer, Brussels Airport Company. “These innovative new vehicles are an important step in the decarbonization of all types of ground handling vehicles. The results of our Stargate-projects will allow for replications of the same principles and projects at other airports across Europe, even beyond the scope of the initial programme.”
Marking a European first, Skytanking has deployed these groundbreaking lithium battery-powered hydrant dispensers, designed to manage high fuel flow rates using a conventional industrial chassis. The goal is for each dispenser to fuel between 15 to 25 aircraft daily on a single charge. This signifies a significant advancement in sustainable aviation fueling practices, paving the way for a greener future for the industry.
