What takes place on the ground is just as important to the aviation industry as what happens up in the air. One of the most necessary of the flight line is its Engine Driven Ground Power Unit (GPU). At JETALL, we know that these units keep everything running smoothly, safely, and inexpensively.

What Is an Engine Driven GPU?

An Engine-Driven GPU is a portable ground power unit that supplies electrical power to an aircraft while its engines or Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) are not running. Unlike electric GPUs, which draw power from the mains, engine-driven units have their engine ¬– usually diesel- or gas-powered – on the ground, which then directly generates electrical power.

This makes them a versatile and indispensable asset for any aviation environment, ranging from commercial airports to military bases and remote airfields.

Why Aircraft Need Ground Power

A power supply is necessary for various services on an airplane during ground operations. This includes:

  • Starting the aircraft engines
  • Running onboard systems during maintenance
  • Running lights, avionics, and air conditioning while parked
  • Aiding in pre-flight inspection and avionics check without expending costly on-board fuel

Without an external power source, such as a GPU, airlines would need to continue running the aircraft’s auxiliary power unit (APU) or main engines, which would increase fuel burn, induce extra wear and tear, and result in additional emissions.

Benefits of Engine Driven GPUs in Ground Operations

Fuel-Efficient and Cost-Effective: GPUs are never expected to work, especially when you take into account the fuel consumption of an aircraft´s engines or APU to charge them down there. It lowers operating costs and saves precious aviation fuel.

Portability and Versatility: Electric GPUs, apart from requiring a connection to the airport’s electrical systems, are portable. This makes them high-performance for remote sites, including military airfields, as well as where ground-based power supply is less accessible.

Support for Multiple Aircraft Types: Powering everything from small jets and helicopters to large passenger aircraft, engine-driven GPUs are capable of supplying power to multiple aircraft types. Most models feature adjustable power settings to fit a variety of aircraft needs.

Enhanced Ground Safety: With an external source of power, engine-driven GPUs enable ground crew support of systems without the need to start the aircraft engines, helping to maintain safety on the ramp and preventing accidents in maintenance or boarding.

Increased Equipment Lifespan: Restraint of APU and/or engine operations on the ground minimizes mechanical wear and tear to the aircraft. This gradually extends the life of aircraft components and reduces servicing costs.

Use Cases for Engine Driven GPUs

  • Off-Airport Sites: Where there is no electric ground power
  • Army Bases: Modular power support and easy deployment
  • Maintenance workshops: For diagnostics and onboard systems
  • Commercial air transport: To optimize turnaround time at the gate
  • General Aviation: Flexible missions to smaller airfields

Why Choose JETALL for Your Ground Power Needs?

At JETALL, we offer a range of high-quality engine-driven GPUs that meet the demands of today’s aviation. You may be operating in a high-traffic airport or a remote hangar. Still, our units provide reliable power, operational flexibility, and robust construction to keep your aircraft ready to fly.

In search of a reliable Engine Driven GPU?

To learn more about our ground support products, please get in touch with JETALL today.