JFK to Unveil Shared Electric Powered Ground Service Vehicles at New Terminal 6
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is set to revolutionise its operations with the introduction of an all-electric ground fleet at its newly redeveloped Terminal 6. This move is part of a larger $19 billion modernization programme scheduled for completion in 2028.
Signature Flight Support has been appointed to manage and operate the electric ground support equipment for the new terminal. The company will oversee a pooled fleet of electric ground support equipment (e-GSE), a first for North America in a new terminal.
Over 4,000 solar panels will be installed at Terminal 6 for sustainability purposes, contributing to the terminal's commitment to sustainable operating practices. The electric ground fleet, expected to open in 2026, is anticipated to reduce CO2 emissions by an estimated 2,500 metric tonnes per year.
The fleet will be shared across airlines, with each of the 10 gates at Terminal 6 having dedicated electric ground handling equipment available for use by different operators. Fortbrand Services and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP) will oversee the fleet through real-time monitoring systems covering GPS location, battery levels, driver authorisation, speed, and maintenance needs.
In addition to the electric ground fleet, Terminal 6 will also feature stormwater reuse systems, high-efficiency building infrastructure, and recycling targets aiming to divert 90% of construction waste. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JMP have announced their intention to seek LEED and Envision Gold certifications for Terminal 6.
This agreement represents an exciting step towards the Port Authority's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The arrangement also aims to reduce duplication of equipment, improve airside efficiency, and cut emissions associated with diesel-powered vehicles.
The Port Authority has introduced a rule requiring all commercially available ground service equipment at its three major airports to be zero-emission by 2030, and more than 1,500 electric units have already been deployed across the airports. Charging facilities will be installed both on site and remotely to support the new electric ground fleet at Terminal 6.
JFK will be the first airport in North America to introduce pooled e-GSE across a new terminal, marking a significant leap in sustainable airport operations. The first six gates of the new terminal are expected to open in 2026, with the remainder following in 2028. This redevelopment project is set to redefine airport sustainability and efficiency, paving the way for a greener future in air travel.
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