American Airlines Ground Support Equipment Battery Case Study

This case study details American Airlines' transition from internal combustion vehicles to electric vehicles for its Ground Support Equipment (GSE) to reduce expenses and emissions. The airline faced challenges with premature battery failures in its electric burden carrier fleet, prompting a search for a more reliable battery solution. American Airlines opted for NexSys® Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries, which demonstrated superior performance in previous applications. A trial conducted at Charlotte Douglas International Airport showed that these batteries exceeded expectations, operating without issues for over a year and indicating a potential lifespan of three to six years. The GSE Fleet Manager, Joe Girting, found the TPPL technology aligned with the airline's environmental goals and operational efficiency. As a result, NexSys TPPL batteries were specified for all new burden carriers, reflecting a strategic decision to enhance battery reliability and reduce maintenance costs. The study concludes with American Airlines' commitment to exploring further applications of TPPL technology in its GSE.