Textron GSE has launched an all-electric option for its Safeaero 220 de-icer, which was premiered at GSE Expo Europe 2024.

The Safeaero 220 is the only single-operator de-icer on the market with its design allowing one operator to drive, manoeuvre and spray from the cab, and it can serve aircraft from commuter aircraft to large aircraft.

It has a state-of-the-art spraying and blending system to reduce fluid consumption, eliminate waste and lower environmental impact.

Its wireless data transfer and remote diagnostics tools allow operators to quickly and easily track the Safeaero 220’s performance.

The Safeaero 220E is on display at GSE Expo Europe, which is being held at the FIL in Lisbon, Portugal from 17-19 September, and can be viewed at stand EX37.

Morgan Gresens, Vice President and General Manager GSE of Textron Specialized Vehicle said the Safeaero 220E is the latest example of Textron GSE’s commitment to electrification, sustainability and customer requirements.

She said: “We invested significantly and are showing our commitment to provide our customers with electrified, zero-emission GSE solutions that don’t compromise the safety, operational efficiency and performance on the tarmac for which Textron GSE is known.”

Textron GSE worked with Equipmake to bring the electric de-icer to market.

Equipmake develops and produces electrified products across the automotive, aerospace, bus, coach and marine industries.

It developed the Safeaero 220E’s electric drivetrain to provide quiet, emissions-free operations while maintaining the Safeaero 220’s single-person operation.

Ian Foley, CEO of Equipmake, said: “Textron GSE’s selection of Equipmake to assist in the electrification of the Safeaero 220 de-icer is a considerable endorsement of both our products and technology, and our ability to apply them in new, important industry sectors.”