MCIA pioneers aircraft on-the-ground power solution

Managers and executives from Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC, MCIAA, 1Aviation, and Cebu Pacific during the ceremonial plug in of the Fixed Power Unit. From left to right: Aldwin Uy, Deputy Chief Operations Officer (AGMCAC); Kurt Cabillon, Senior Manager for Ramp Operations (AGMCAC); Julius Neri, General Manager (MCIAA); Athanasios Titonis, Chief Executive Officer (AGMCAC); David Krakowski, Head of Operations (1Aviation); Dindo Fernando, Head of Outstations (1Aviation); Johnny Yap, Area Head (1Aviation); Jemar Nietes, Head of Terminal Operations (MCIAA); Philip Fajatin Senior Manager for Aero-Commercial (AGMCAC); Samuel Elle, Head of SQE (AGMCAC)

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is pioneering the use of aircraft on-the-ground power solutions such as the fixed power unit (FPU) and pre-conditioned air (PCA) services to reduce carbon emissions and offset fuel costs upon passenger boarding and arrival.

The fixed power unit is an eco-friendly ground power system that enables aircraft to connect directly to a stationary, electricity-powered energy source while on the airfield. Additionally, PCA is an external heating, cooling, and dehumidifying device that delivers fresh, preconditioned air to the aircraft and jet bridges between flights.

“International airports like Hong Kong, Zurich, Dublin and Munich have adopted these innovative solutions to minimize their ecological footprint, and MCIA is thrilled to join these airports and hopeful about its impact in the global sustainability movement,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation chief executive officer, Athanasios Titonis.

“Being the second busiest airport in the country, we want to manage our carbon footprint and maintain good air quality for passengers and workers. This is why we highly encourage airlines to use FPU and PCA units,” said Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority general manager Julius Neri, Jr.

“Traditionally, aircraft rely on mobile ground power units—small, diesel-powered engines that are noisy, emit fumes, and occupy valuable space on parking stands.  Transitioning from diesel-powered units to FPU offers substantial operational and environmental advantages for airport users and the local community,” said deputy chief of operations officer Aldwin Uy.

“Cebu Pacific fully supports Mactan Cebu International Airport’s ground equipment solutions initiative. This represents a crucial step forward in creating a sustainable future for Philippine aviation. By being the first airline to use this technology at MCIA, we are reducing our carbon emissions and setting a benchmark for the industry,” said Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao.

Commitment to sustainability

As the pioneer airport in the Philippines to use FPU and PCA units, MCIA is dedicated to reducing its overall ecological footprint and ensuring a safe, efficient working environment. MCIA began its sustainability initiatives in 2020 by initiating FPU and PCA services through Bridge Mounted Equipment (BME). 

Despite pandemic-related delays, MCIA obtained in-principle approval from airline partners in the fourth quarter of 2019 and is now moving forward with implementation.

MCIA will install FEGP and PCA units under the Passenger Boarding Bridge, ensuring easy aircraft access. This shift is expected to reduce fluctuating fuel costs, APU maintenance costs, CO2 and NOx emissions, and airport noise levels and improve operational safety.

“Airlines could potentially see a cost reduction of 40-60% by transitioning to BME services at MCIA,” said Titonis.

“With the multiple benefits of BME services, we are confident in the support of our airline partners in implementing these sustainable solutions at MCIA. Together, we can reduce our environmental impact and pave the way for a greener future in aviation, he added.