SUSTAINABLE AVIATION. Cebu Pacific is the first airline to use the bridge mounted equipment at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport in this undated photo. The BME is equipped with ground power solutions that will help airlines reduce carbon footprint and lower fuel cost. (Photo courtesy of Cebu Pacific)
MANILA – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and low-cost airline Cebu Pacific (CEB) have partnered for sustainable airport operations, pioneering the use of bridge mounted equipment (BME) in the country.
The BME helps airlines cut fuel cost as it reduces carbon emissions since BME has a fixed power unit (FPU) and pre-conditioned air unit (PCA) services for ground power and carbon cooling without relying on an aircraft's jet fuel-powered auxiliary power units.
"This (initiative) represents a crucial step in creating a sustainable future for Philippine aviation. We are honored to be the first airline to use this technology at MCIA," CEB vice president for Customer Service Operations Lei Apostol said in a statement.
Ground power solutions such as FPU connects the aircraft directly to electricity-powered source, while PCA is a device used for heating, cooling and dehumidifying preconditioned air.
MCIA-operator Aboitiz InfraCapital GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation chief executive officer Athanasios Titonis said airports in Hong Kong, Zurich, among others, have adopted these solutions to minimize ecological footprint.
The airport has expressed commitment to reducing overall ecological footprint and ensuring safe and efficient working environment while encouraging airlines to use the FPU and PCA.
Titonis said airlines could potentially see a 40 to 60 percent cost reduction by using the BME at the MCIA.
"Together, we can reduce our environmental impact and pave the way for a greener future in aviation," he added.
The FPU and PCA units were installed under the boarding bridge, ensuring ease of use during aircraft servicing. These are also expected to reduce noise levels, according to the MCIA. (PNA)
