The project is being run by the E-PORT AN initiative partners, which include Fraport AG, Lufthansa Group, the State of Hesse and the Rhine-Main model electro-mobility region, and has received €8m in funding from the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.

The "Green Gate" project outlines which aircraft ground services can be largely carried out with electric vehicles in the future, including solar-powered passenger airstairs, electric conveyor belt vehicles, hybrid aircraft tugs and electric pallet trucks.



As well as slashing emissions, the project is intended to cut noise and the environmental footprint whilst assessing the effect of large-scale use of electric vehicles on the airport’s power grid.

Dr Stefan Schulte, CEO of Fraport AG, said: “In addition to the energy optimisation of the terminal, the use of electric vehicles at the airport is an essential starting point for us to reduce CO2 emissions. Electrically powered vehicles are principally ideal for use at airports with, as here is the case, short-haul traffic. This is especially true for special vehicles for aircraft servicing, such as towing vehicles, ground support equipment or pallet trucks. We want the proportion of special electric vehicles used here on-site to further increase.”