Air Canada announced today that its ground operations in Québec City will be the airline’s first station in Canada to achieve 100% electrification of its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet across all main categories by the end of 2025. This milestone marks a significant transition from fossil fuel-powered equipment to electric alternatives, encompassing all baggage and ramp tractors, belt loaders, power stows, container loaders, and aircraft tractors. By completing this transition, Air Canada will eliminate the use of fossil fuel equipment in these key GSE categories at this station.
In a statement, Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, emphasized the importance of this initiative, particularly in light of Earth Month 2025, which focuses on renewable energy. He noted, "The focus of Earth Month 2025 is Renewable Energy and with Québec’s renewable hydroelectric power, it is fitting that the city of Québec is our first fully electric capable station." This project illustrates the successful collaboration between Air Canada and the YQB airport authority in developing the necessary charging infrastructure to support the transition to a zero direct emission electric GSE (eGSE) fleet powered by Québec’s renewable energy grid.
Rousseau further explained, "Achieving the clean energy transition for aviation will require collaboration and efforts from all stakeholders. We accept our role as Canada’s flag carrier and acknowledge that aviation plays a critical role in global connectivity and socio-economic growth. We are committed to a coordinated approach for this long-term energy transition as we operate within an ecosystem of manufacturers, suppliers, airports, and governments, all of whom play an integral part in this important initiative."
Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB, echoed Rousseau's sentiments, stating, "The electrification of Air Canada’s ground operations at YQB represents a concrete and significant step in reducing the impact of airport ground activities on the environment. This project was made possible thanks to close collaboration between our teams and is perfectly in line with our commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of our operations, as well as to provide the support and tools necessary for our airline partners to achieve their GHG reduction objectives."
Mayor Bruno Marchand of Québec City also expressed his support for the initiative, stating, "Québec City is delighted with this initiative, which makes our airport the first Air Canada station in the country to electrify its main ground support equipment. This transition testifies to the commitment of our institutions and companies to innovate while taking into account current and future energy concerns."
Over the past several years, Air Canada has been progressively retiring and replacing older fossil-fuel powered ground equipment across Canada with more efficient electric ground equipment. Currently, the airline boasts more than 900 pieces of eGSE equipment, which represents 35% of the GSE fleet across all categories. The new eGSEs are designed to reduce direct emissions compared to internal combustion engine GSEs and are expected to lower maintenance and spare part costs, eliminating direct fuel costs and contributing to overall cost savings for Air Canada.
This electrification initiative is part of Air Canada’s broader climate-related ambition, which sets out mid-term targets in support of its long-term aspirational goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. The airline aims for a 20% reduction in GHG emissions from its air operations and a 30% reduction from its ground operations, both compared to a 2019 baseline, by 2030.
As the airline moves forward with this electrification project, it underscores the growing importance of sustainability in the aviation industry. The collaboration among Air Canada, YQB, and local authorities demonstrates a collective commitment to reducing environmental impacts and promoting renewable energy sources. This initiative not only positions Québec City as a leader in sustainable aviation practices but also sets a precedent for other airports and airlines across the country.
With the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the increasing demand for sustainable practices, Air Canada’s move to electrify its ground operations is a timely and necessary step. The airline's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and showcases the potential for the aviation sector to innovate and adapt in response to environmental concerns.
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, initiatives like this one at YQB highlight the role that the aviation industry can play in fostering a more sustainable future. By investing in electric technologies and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, Air Canada is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also contributing to a cleaner, greener planet.
In conclusion, Air Canada’s announcement today represents a landmark achievement in the airline's sustainability journey, setting a standard for electrification in the aviation sector. As the first station in Canada to achieve 100% electrification of its GSE fleet, Québec City is paving the way for a more sustainable future in air travel.
