SATS Ltd subsidiary, SATS Airport Services Pte Ltd, and ground support equipment (GSE) manufacturer and supplier, Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co Ltd (Guangtai), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore and trial advanced technologies to drive improvements in airport ground support services provided by SATS and its subsidiaries.

The companies signed the MoU on March 27, 2025, for a three-year collaboration which aims to evaluate the performance and suitability of the technologies in real-world airport operations.

The partnership will place an emphasis on electric GSE technologies to ensure they meet SATS’ operation needs as well as  focus on training, engineering and sustainability improvements.

To start, SATS will trial a new mid-size electric air tug developed by Guangtai that is designed to push or tow medium-sized passenger aircraft and supports SATS’ transition to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious fleet.

It will also work with Guangtai’s engineering technology centre to provide feedback in the design and manufacturing process to improve equipment reliability, ease of maintenance, and sustainability.

In turn, Guangtai will equip operators and engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate and maintain the new electric technologies and existing equipment to optimise delivery of ground support services.

SATS has initiated a multi-year capex management approach to enhance GSE procurement and fleet management and, as part of that strategy, is consolidating category management and building long-term partnerships with GSE manufacturers.

This will improve reliability, efficiency, and total cost ownership of SATS’ GSE fleet, which will help with fleet rejuvenations and future growth.

Henry Low, chief executive of SATS Ltd Singapore Hub, commented: “The collaboration will provide us with access to new electric technologies, specialised training, and a pathway to reduce emissions, which is central to our plans to electrify our GSE fleet and support our broader goals of operational excellence and sustainability,”

President Li of Weihai Guangtai added: “By providing advanced electric technologies, specialised training, and tailored support, we are striving for building a greener, smarter, and more efficient aviation industry. This partnership not only ensures mutual commercial benefits but also presents a strategic opportunity to promote the development of smart airports and foster sustainable aviation practices.

“Collectively, we aim to penetrate international markets and inject fresh impetus into the global aviation industry.”