Accelerating airport decarbonisation: Qualitative investigation of stakeholders’ perceptions and requirements towards hydrogen-powered ground support equipment

Hydrogen-powered ground support equipment (GSE) has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and accelerate airport decarbonisation, yet limited research has examined stakeholders’ perceptions of this emerging technology. To address this gap, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with key airport stakeholders, including airport operators, car manufacturers, hydrogen suppliers, and infrastructure providers, to explore their attitudes and operational needs regarding hydrogen-powered GSE. Following the thematic analysis, five core themes emerged: 1) Stakeholders viewed hydrogen-powered GSE as an ideal option for supporting airport decarbonisation, citing benefits such as zero emissions at point of use, low noise, fast refuelling, and long driving range. 2) Widespread adoption is constrained by high costs, limited refuelling infrastructure, and safety concerns and regulatory uncertainty. 3) Stakeholders felt limited refuelling infrastructure and vehicle range may initially impact staff experience with hydrogen GSE, but the long-term aim is a seamless operation. 4) Stakeholders saw the need for both technology-specific training and general hydrogen awareness training to ensure safety and build staff confidence. 5) Future investment should prioritise vehicles, hydrogen production, and infrastructure development. This study concludes that the adoption of hydrogen-powered GSE provides a strategic pathway for advancing sustainable air transport. Considering its successful deployment, it recommends collaboration among policymakers, airports, manufacturers, end-users, and academia is essential to improve understanding of hydrogen risks and guide safety standards.