Decarbonizing Aviation Ground Operations: Alternative Bus Technologies

In the aviation sector’s decarbonization efforts, airports are uniquely positioned to lead by example. This white paper examines the feasibility of replacing fossil fuel-powered airport buses with cleaner technologies, including retrofitted electric, battery-electric and hydrogen-powered options.

It finds that retrofitted electric buses can provide a cost-effective bridge to full electrification, while battery-electric and hydrogen buses deliver longer-term sustainability gains. The paper also outlines financing mechanisms, energy integration opportunities, and collaboration pathways to accelerate adoption. By implementing these solutions, airports can cut emissions, improve air quality and advance the aviation sector’s journey towards net-zero ground operations.