The on-airport vehicle market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by advances in technology, an increased focus on sustainability and the growing demand for a seamless and more comfortable passenger experience.
Keeping it green
Sustainability is at the forefront of developments in the on-airport vehicle market. Electric vehicles (EVs), including luxury cars and buses, are being adopted for their environmental benefits, with zero emissions and lower operational costs over time.
Companies such as Proterra and BYD are supplying airports with electric buses that offer significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Despite their higher initial costs, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make them a viable option.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority announced in 2022 a pivot to fully electric-powered buses from Proterra Operating Company for use in its fleet of parking shuttles at Washington Dulles International Airport. Funded by a grant from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, the purchase was hailed as a major step towards the airports authority’s goal of a more sustainable fleet of low- or zero-emission ground transportation vehicles. The purchase included ZX5+ buses, as well as three Proterra 150kW charging stations, to replace five older diesel buses. Each Proterra ZX5+ features a 450kW/hr battery that delivers between 154 and 216 miles of service per charge, enabling drivers to complete their full shift on a single charge. The three 150kW high-capacity chargers are capable of recharging each bus in under four hours.
Zhengzhou-based Yutong has exported more than 100,000 buses to over 100 countries and regions
More recently, Chinese manufacturer Yutong exported a batch of 46 apron buses to Spain, which will be put into operation in 15 major airports. Aruba Airport Authority has also taken delivery of a new 100% electric E COBUS 3000 airport bus, produced by Wiesbaden-based COBUS Industries. The vehicle has the capacity to carry up to 110 passengers and is the first of its kind in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Glasgow Airport has switched its long-stay car park shuttle to zero-emission electric mobility with the introduction of three BYD ADL Enviro200EV battery buses, in partnership with Alexander Dennis and BYD Europe. The investment made Glasgow Airport the first in the UK to switch its official car park shuttles to all-electric operation. The buses are operated by NCP on behalf of the airport and replace three diesel buses.
Not without challenges
The transition to electric vehicles is not without challenges. The high upfront costs and the need for an extensive charging infrastructure can be barriers to widespread adoption.
The effectiveness of electric vehicles at airports relies heavily on the availability and efficiency of charging facilities. Fast-charging stations are particularly critical, ensuring that vehicles can be quickly turned around for continuous operation. For instance, airports such as Los Angeles International and Heathrow have significantly expanded their EV charging infrastructure to support both passenger and airport vehicles.
A myenergi EV charger in operation at Heathrow
The introduction of EV charging at the UK’s Newcastle International Airport has added 66 charging points across the site for staff and operational vehicles. Chief executive Nick Jones said: “We take immense pride in our accomplishments so far. However, we acknowledge that there's still work ahead. We are confident that Newcastle International Airport will remain a sector leader in sustainability and continue to reach milestones on the path to net zero carbon by 2035. These include plans to develop an EV charging forecourt at Callerton Parkway, operated by [Dutch firm] Fastned, introducing even more electric vehicles to our operational fleet, planting an additional 12,000 trees and making strides toward implementing low-carbon heating in the main terminal.”
British Airways is transitioning towards a full fleet of electric and hybrid passenger buses at Heathrow, with a large charging park now in the early stages of development. The airline will gradually be replacing its ground vehicles at the west London hub, including vans and cars, cargo transporters and passenger steps, moving towards hybrid or electric alternatives where available. Already more than 90% of British Airways’ vehicles and ground equipment at Heathrow are either zero-emissions electrical equipment when being used or driven (hybrids) or are operating on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel.
In 2021, the Kansas City Aviation Department invested in the first wireless inductive vehicle charging system at an airport in the world, as part of the $1.5bn Kansas City International Airport New Terminal project. The inductive system provides frequent incremental charging, keeping the buses in service along the seven-mile loop without the need to return to the garage for charging during the day. While waiting for passengers, the electric buses park over the inductive charging pads and automatically charge, each charging session automatically ending when the bus departs from the pad.
Inductive charging in action at Kansas City International Airport
Evolving design
Modern airport buses are being designed with a focus on comfort, efficiency, accessibility and sustainability. Newer models feature improved aerodynamics, lighter materials and energy-efficient systems to reduce fuel consumption. Electric and hybrid buses are becoming standard in many airports, combining eco-friendliness with performance.
Interior design changes are also noticeable. Buses now offer more spacious interiors to accommodate travellers with large baggage, families with pushchairs, and passengers with reduced mobility (PRMs). Features such as low floors, wider doors and designated spaces for wheelchairs and luggage are enhancing the passenger experience. Additionally, many buses are equipped with advanced air conditioning and heating systems, Wi-Fi connectivity and digital information screens to keep passengers comfortable and informed. Low-floor buses with kneeling capabilities make it easier for all passengers to board, while ramps and lifts provide additional assistance for those who need it. Interior layouts are being optimised to ensure sufficient space for wheelchairs, buggies and large luggage. Audio-visual systems are also being implemented to aid visual- and hearing-impaired passengers. These enhancements ensure that all travellers can navigate the airport with ease and comfort, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity and customer service.
Safety first
Safety remains a paramount concern in the on-airport vehicle market. With the increasing use of electric and autonomous vehicles, airports are implementing stringent safety protocols. Regular maintenance checks, driver training programmes and advanced safety features such as collision avoidance systems are standard practice. Crashes involving on-campus airport cars and buses are rare, although accidents do sometimes occur. In 2023 at Xiamen Airport in China, an empty passenger bus was driven through a glass wall at Terminal 3.
Airports and their stakeholders employ a range of measures to mitigate the threat of on-airport incidents. Bristol Airport runs a fleet of Mercedes-Benz Citaro vehicles, including Citaro G articulated buses, to help transport passengers from car parks to the terminal. The buses feature luggage racks, a driver microphone/speaker system and LED destination displays with interior display screens.
Honolulu Airport recently began a trial of Beep’s autonomous shuttles
Notably, they also incorporate Synectics’ surveillance solutions, comprising high-quality recording equipment integrated with telematics and on-vehicle cameras (both internal and external). Using footage and telematics data from the buses means driver activity can be analysed to ensure buses are being driven safely. Martin Fisher, motor transport manager at Bristol Airport, commented: “If we don’t keep our buses moving efficiently around the airport, it causes unnecessary hold-ups and disruption to passengers – that’s bad for business. Having on-vehicle surveillance helps us avoid those scenarios in several ways and influences how we train new drivers. They have to operate in pretty confined and busy areas, so it’s helpful to be able to really fine-tune performance.”
Enhancing efficiency
Autonomous buses represent a significant advancement in airport transportation. These self-driving vehicles promise to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs and improve passenger convenience. Trials of autonomous buses are underway at several major airports, including Honolulu’s Daniel K Inouye International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor. These buses use sophisticated sensors and cameras to navigate the airport environment safely and are designed to handle complex scenarios, such as heavy traffic and pedestrian crossings, with limited or no human intervention. The integration of autonomous buses into airport operations is expected to streamline transport logistics, reduce waiting times and offer a smoother, more reliable service.
Testers can take EV rides between downtown Phoenix and the airport with an autonomous specialist in the Waymo vehicle
Beep, a provider of autonomous shared mobility, announced in May the launch of a first-of-its-kind partnership with Sustainability Partners and the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) for the launch of an 18-month autonomous shuttle pilot at Daniel K Inouye International Airport. Beep CEO Joe Moye explained: “Our fleet of turnkey shared and electric autonomous shuttles prioritises safety and sustainability, while enhancing the airport travel experience for passengers. As Beep continues to pioneer innovative partnerships with airports nationwide, this inaugural test programme showcases the emerging potential of advanced solutions that can augment existing transport options everywhere, unveiling a new era of seamless, efficient passenger mobility.”
Beep’s Miki shuttle pilot programme includes four autonomous and electric shuttles that can transport 11 passengers, including a shuttle attendant, increasing mobility frequency and providing first- and last-mile transport options alongside the existing shuttle bus service. Shuttles will move between the airport’s C Gates with three stops for Miki’s short route, while a longer route will transport guests between C and G Gates with two stops. Hawaii Department of Transportation director Ed Sniffen said: “We are pleased to work with Beep to implement an innovative new approach to passenger mobility that brings autonomous transportation technology to the Daniel K Inouye International Airport. Beep and the Miki shuttles embody the future of transportation across the state, supporting our larger sustainability goals while enhancing the traveller experience.”
Two Karsan autonomous e-ATAK buses have been deployed at Rotterdam The Hague Airport
Advanced solutions
At Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, travellers are now offered the option to take a Waymo autonomous vehicle as a means of travelling to and from the airport. Rides are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in Waymo’s fully electric Jaguar I-PACE. Waymo driver pick-ups and drop-offs occur at the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station, where passengers can hop on the free PHX Sky Train direct to the terminals. Phoenix mayor Kate Gallego commented: “Phoenix is leading the future of mobility and modernising how the world will experience travel. The exciting technology offers our customers an additional option for travelling to the airport in a clean, sustainable and technologically advanced mode of transportation. The future has arrived in Phoenix.”
Software specialist Adastec was recently awarded the contract to implement an automated bus service with two Karsan Autonomous e-ATAK buses for Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA). Adastec said the initiative was the first-ever global application of SAE Level 4 (which requires a safety driver to be on board) automated bus technology for airport transportation in mixed traffic. Once approved by the Dutch road authority RDW by the end of 2024, Adastec and Karsan will have enhanced the route from Meijersplein metro station to RTHA to complement the existing bus line. Ali Peker, CEO of Adastec, said: “In partnership with Karsan and Applied Autonomy, Adastec has launched a pioneering service that, for the first time on a global scale, brings advanced automated bus technology to an airport setting, leading the way for future airport transport solutions.”
Menzies’ new independent venture, Pearl Executive Aviation, aims to deliver a seamless and convenient passenger experience
Limousine services
Recent contracts between vehicle suppliers and airports highlight the growing demand for sustainable and advanced transportation solutions. But there is another segment of the airport vehicle market that is also strengthening: luxury gate-to-aircraft transfer services.
Leading car brands are tapping into the market by offering exclusive transport services to business terminals. This integration offers significant branding opportunities, associating these high-end vehicles with exclusivity and top-tier service. Menzies Aviation has announced the acquisition of Flystar Flight Support, a leading supplier of executive aviation services in the Balkans. The acquisition forms part of Menzies’ new independent venture, Pearl Executive Aviation, which will offer premium ground handling services for private jets, VIP passengers and crew, providing a seamless and convenient experience at more than 25 locations worldwide.
The airport vehicle market is in a state of dynamic transformation and electric and autonomous vehicles are at the forefront of this evolution, promising greener and more efficient operations. As airports continue to invest in advanced vehicle fleets and infrastructure, the passenger journey is becoming more seamless, safe and inclusive. The collaboration between vehicle manufacturers and airports is crucial in driving this progress, ensuring that the future of airport transportation is not only innovative but also environmentally responsible and user-friendly.
A partnership with BMW UK enables passengers to travel to and from their aircraft in BMW i7 vehicles
A deluxe drive
In the realm of elite travel, the seamless transition from ground to air is a crucial element of the experience. One trend that shows no sign of abating is the use of luxury cars to transport passengers to private aviation facilities, adding an extra layer of opulence to the journey. High-end car services, featuring brands such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Mercedes-Benz, are now integral to the private jet experience, catering to the discerning tastes of affluent travellers.
Farnborough Airport, a leading airport for premium air travel connectivity, announced in March that it was teaming up with BMW UK as part of the airport’s brand partnership programme. Three BMW i7 vehicles were used to chauffeur guests to and from their aircraft. The BMW i7 was also placed centre stage in a unique display on the approach to the airport terminal. Farnborough Airport CEO Simon Geere said the deal reflected the airport’s “dedication to providing a unique guest experience.” The airport previously partnered with ultra-luxury British automotive manufacturer Aston Martin, with guests driven to and from their aircraft in the SUV DBX707.
Malaysia Airlines has also introduced private terminal transfer service for its passengers to travel between the main terminal building and the satellite building of Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1, using BMW i7s. Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, CEO of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said: “With this exclusive service, we aim to enhance the travel experience for our top-tier customers, ensuring that they can enjoy premium comfort as part of their end-to-end journey with us. As the only carrier offering this personalised service to our passengers in light of the aerotrain’s temporary suspension at KLIA Terminal 1, it underscores our dedication to elevating our standards of service to ensure a premium travel experience, while also reinforcing our commitment to embedding sustainable practices with the selection of the all-electric BMW i7 series. We look forward to extending this service to our arriving passengers as part of our continuous efforts to ensure a fuss-free and enjoyable experience driven by our inimitable Malaysian hospitality.”
Mayor of Phoenix Kate Gallego arrives at the airport in a Waymo self-driving car
