Elle, Head of SQE (AGMCAC)
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) pioneers 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 while upon boarding and arrival of passengers.
Fixed Power Unit is an eco-friendly ground power system that enables aircrafts to connect directly to a stationary, electricity-powered energy source while on the airfield. Additionally, PCA is an external device used for heating, cooling, and dehumidifying 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 make sure to manage our carbon footprint and maintain good air quality for both passengers and workers in the airport. 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 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 not only reducing our carbon emissions but also setting a benchmark for the industry,” said Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer, Xander Lao.
MCIA’s 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 with the initiation of FPU and PCA services through Bridge Mounted Equipment (BME). Despite pandemic-related delays, MCIA obtained in-principle approval from airline partners in in the fourth quarter of 2019, and is now moving forward with implementation.
Implementation at MCIA
MCIA will install FEGP and PCA units under the Passenger Boarding Bridge, ensuring easy access for aircraft. This shift is expected to reduce fluctuating fuel costs, APU maintenance costs, CO2 and NOx emissions, 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 to implement these sustainable solutions at MCIA. Together, we can reduce our environmental impact and pave the way for a greener future in aviation.” He added.