We may not even notice them as they whip around. Except for our luggage, we may not even think twice about the people who use ground support equipment to make our trip by aircraft comfortable and safe. Yet, this particular aspect of air travel is vital for more than getting your luggage on and off the plane. It even helps your aircraft leave the terminal by giving it a friendly and very necessary push.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
Ground support equipment or GSE is everywhere outside the terminal. It is on the ramp and tarmac in different forms performing various tasks. It exists to provide support functions to the aircraft from the time it lands until the time it takes off and everywhere in between. In general, GSE functions fall into 3 separate but related categories:
1. Aircraft mobility – aircraft tugs or tractors
2. Ground power operations
3. Loading operations – for cargo, baggage and passengers
Over the years ground support functions have changed. Technology has improved it. Yet, this has all taken place in only a few decades starting with the origins of flight.
The Beginning of Ground Support Equipment
Although aircraft have been around for several years by the early 1900s, they do not “take flight” really until World War I. They were still experimental. However, as the war became more than the brief aberration the “Back by Christmas” crowd had imagined, the airplane became more sophisticated. It moved from being a tool for simple reconnaissance to actually becoming involved in “dog fights” and bombing missions. Ground support equipment tended to be basic tools and often hit and miss.
By the end of the war in 1918, the airplane had arrived to stay. Although not considered a vehicle for regular group travel, there were barnstormers performing air shows. Air craft performed crop dusting and seeded the sky for rain. When stuck or needing a push to get going, the farmer helped supplied the ground support equipment necessary to do the job – his tractor. In fact, at early airports, tractors continued to be the main means of towing aircraft. This has carried on into modern aircraft towing equipment with the term “tractor” being applied to many that are tow pulls.
Ground Support Equipment: World War II and Following
World War II was a major boost for aircraft. By the end, commercial aircraft transport was fast becoming the norm. By 1959, not only were planes now adapted for commercial flights, but companies had begun to seriously manufacture what we now call ground support equipment. Much of what was then available would be recognizable as such today.
The first boarding bridges for passengers are constructed. This is followed during the 1960s by a several innovative ground support equipment. Among them are:
* Air craft tow tractors
* De-icer vehicles
* Cargo handling systems that are fast and efficient
Rom humble and simpler beginnings, the business of supplying ground support equipment has grown. Today, it is possible to purchase, rent or lease a vast array of GSE from manufacturers and companies who specialize in supplying airports. Like the changes in the aircraft and flying itself, ground support equipment has adapted to meet the current needs of the aviation industry and its products.
When looking for quality Ground Support Equipment, it is always good to talk to the professionals. Whether renting, buying or leasing, you will find what you want at Mercury GSE. Mercury GSE supplies a broad array of ground support equipment – guaranteed to streamline all aspects of ground support. To discover more about their products, visit their website.