Shell Aviation has announced the introduction of a first-of-its-kind electric pump jet refuelling vehicle in its operations at Stuttgart Airport, Germany. The vehicle significantly reduces diesel consumption during aircraft refuelling, supporting airports in their efforts to reduce emissions across their operations.
“The electric pump jet refueller system is an example of the spirit of innovation we bring to our customers, working with airports and airlines to provide solutions to the operational challenges they face,” said Anne Anderson, Vice-President Shell Aviation. “We are excited about the potential for electric pump jet refuellers to help reduce the carbon footprint of airports. We are hopeful that this pilot programme at Stuttgart Airport will prove successful and these vehicles will have an important role to play in airports of the future.”
The 20,000-litre refueller features a fully electric fuelling system and pressure control, enabling a significant reduction in diesel consumption when compared to conventional refuellers which use the diesel engine to power refuelling. The new refueller uses its diesel engine solely for moving around the apron, switching it off while refuelling takes place. Following extensive trials, the refueller is currently being piloted with the support of Stuttgart Airport. It is anticipated that the refueller will deliver a reduction in diesel consumption of 2,200 litres during the course of the pilot, compared to a conventional refuelling vehicle.1
