Aircraft Ground Power Units

Aircraft Ground Power Units for Reliable Ground Operations

Aircraft GPUs are an important part of aviation ground support equipment and are commonly used to support:

• Aircraft engine start procedures
• Onboard electrical power while aircraft are parked
• Aircraft maintenance and inspection work
• Powering avionics, lighting, and cabin systems
• Ramp, hangar, and flight line support operations

By supplying external electrical power, aircraft ground power units can help reduce dependence on onboard auxiliary power units (APUs), lowering fuel consumption, reducing noise, and minimising wear on aircraft systems during servicing and turnaround operations.

Available AC and DC Aircraft Ground Power Units

Aircraft ground power units are available in both DC and AC configurations depending on aircraft type, operational requirements, and airport infrastructure.

Common aircraft GPU configurations may include:

• 28-Volt DC GPUs for helicopters, regional aircraft, turboprops, and smaller jets
• 120/200V 400Hz AC GPUs for larger commercial aircraft and airport operations
• Combined GPU and air start units for operators requiring both electrical power and engine starting capability
• Mobile and towable GPU configurations for flexible ramp operations

Global GSE regularly stocks both 28-volt and 120-volt aircraft ground power units in a variety of capacities, configurations, and manufacturer models.

Built for Ramp and Hangar Environments

Aircraft GPUs are designed for demanding aviation environments where consistent power delivery and operational reliability are essential. Depending on the model and application, aircraft ground power units may include:

• Heavy-duty industrial chassis construction
• Weather-resistant enclosures for outdoor ramp use
• Diesel-powered or Jet A-powered engine systems
• Integrated operator controls and cable storage
• Mobile designs for active airport and hangar operations

These units are commonly used in both maintenance hangars and active aircraft servicing environments where dependable external aircraft power is required.

Used and Refurbished Aircraft Ground Power Units

Used aircraft ground power units can provide a practical and cost-effective solution for operators looking for dependable aviation support equipment without the lead times often associated with new units.

Global GSE supplies used and refurbished aircraft GPUs from established manufacturers. Available inventory may include units such as the Tiernay MEP 362A 10KW / 28 Volt GPU, with selected units available fully serviced, load bank tested, and freshly painted prior to delivery.

Inventory availability changes regularly as new equipment arrives weekly.

Global GSE Inventory and Availability

Skybus LLC / Global GSE stocks a rotating inventory of aircraft ground power units for commercial, cargo, military, regional, and general aviation applications.

Available inventory may include diesel-powered GPUs, Jet A-powered units, 28-volt DC GPUs, 120-volt AC GPUs, and combination GPU/air start systems.

If you do not see the aircraft ground power unit you require listed here, please contact our team for current availability and upcoming arrivals.

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FAQs

1. What is an aircraft ground power unit (GPU)?

An aircraft ground power unit is a mobile or stationary external power source used to provide electrical power to an aircraft while it is on the ground.

2. What are aircraft GPUs used for?

Aircraft GPUs are commonly used during aircraft maintenance, servicing, boarding, engine start procedures, and general ground operations while aircraft engines are shut down.

3. What is the difference between AC and DC aircraft GPUs?

DC GPUs, commonly 28-volt systems, are often used for smaller aircraft, helicopters, and engine start applications. AC GPUs typically provide 120/200V 400Hz power for larger commercial aircraft systems and airport operations.

4. Can aircraft ground power units reduce aircraft operating costs?

Yes. Using external aircraft ground power can help reduce reliance on onboard APUs, lowering fuel usage, reducing engine hours, minimising maintenance requirements, and decreasing ramp noise.

5. Are your aircraft ground power units new or used?

Global GSE primarily stocks used and refurbished aircraft ground power units. Availability varies depending on current inventory and incoming equipment.

6. How do I choose the right aircraft GPU?

Selecting the correct aircraft ground power unit depends on aircraft voltage and frequency requirements, operational environment, required output capacity, and whether the unit will support maintenance, ramp servicing, or engine starting operations.

7. Do you stock both 28-volt and 120-volt aircraft GPUs?

Yes. Global GSE regularly stocks both 28-volt DC GPUs and 120-volt AC aircraft ground power units, including some combined GPU and air start units.