Tag: Professor David Keene

Embrace intelligent GSE, says Aurrigo CEO

Picture credit: Leif Piechowski

Picture credit: Leif Piechowski

The CEO of Aurrigo International has urged the ground handling industry to embrace intelligent GSE to transform operations.

Professor David Keene created the term intelligent GSE to describe his vision for a suite of advanced, integrated technologies to enhance operational performance and streamline airside activities.

Adopting smart airside solutions will help the industry reduce turnaround times, improve reliability and cut its environmental footprint.

Keene said: “As we move into a new era of airside operations, it is imperative that we harness advanced technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The future belongs to those who will lead the charge in reimagining how ground handling is performed.”

Automation is an area where iGSE can help by minimising human errors and enhancing operational speed.

Data analytics can provide real-time data to optimise resource allocation and improve decision-making processes.

Integrating eco-friendly practices into ground support operations will help with sustainability by reducing emissions and supporting global goals.

Keene said: “This is not just about technology; it’s about transforming our industry to better serve airlines, passengers, and the planet. Who will be the first GSE to transition to an iGSE approach?”

Aurrigo opens first US operational office at CVG airport

Aurrigo AutoDollyTug at CVG airport resizedAurrigo International has launched its first operational office in the USA, located at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

The office is in Delta Cargo’s building at the airport and is home to the team responsible for deploying the Auto-DollyTug, a fully-electric tug that operates autonomously airside, delivering cost savings, increased efficiency and reduces carbon emissions by up to 60% compared to traditional diesel tugs.

Daniel Garcia Jr has been recruited as the company’s first Autonomous Vehicle Safety Operator in the USA and will shortly be joined by more colleagues including specialists in vehicle maintenance.

Professor David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International, said: “The deal we signed in January to deploy Auto-DollyTug at CVG has led to this dedicated office and new team. It will provide the team with ease of access to the initial deployment, while also providing the opportunity to move forward on other potential ventures stateside.”

The Auto-DollyTug is an all-electric, autonomous vehicle that combines the utility of a baggage tractor with the ULD carrying capability of an airport dolly, making a more flexible and space efficient vehicle.

An Auto-DollyTug towing four trailers can carry five ULDs, 30% more than a traditional tug set-up with the same overall length.

Aurrigo’s technology incorporates robotic arms on the body, allowing the vehicle to autonomously load and unload a ULD itself.

The project is getting set up and mapping the airport with operations due to start soon.

Keene said: “Many US airports are looking to push the boundaries of innovation to increase capacity and improve the passenger experience. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is the first of what we hope will be many adopting our technology.”