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A comprehensive review of ground support equipment scheduling for aircraft ground handling services

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  • Zhou, Peng
  • Shen, Yu
  • Zheng, Yujing
  • Zheng, Yuefeng
  • Guo, Binfeng
  • Du, Yuchuan

Abstract

Aircraft ground handling (GH) services are critical to ensuring the efficient operation of airport systems, necessitating the optimization of ground support equipment (GSE) scheduling. This study investigates the characteristics of various GH services as well as their interdependent processes, and provides a comprehensive analysis of GSE scheduling methodologies. Existing models and algorithms designed for nine types of GSE are examined, including ferry, baggage, refueling, garbage, sewage, freshwater, catering, de-icing, and towing vehicles. Particular attention is given to their similarities and distinctive features in operation, shaped by the unique requirements of their respective services. Then, with the growing emphasis on the concept of airport collaborative decision-making, recent studies regarding multi-type GSE coordination are reviewed. Based on the analysis of the literature, this study identifies current research gaps and outlines directions for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhou, Peng & Shen, Yu & Zheng, Yujing & Zheng, Yuefeng & Guo, Binfeng & Du, Yuchuan, 2025. "A comprehensive review of ground support equipment scheduling for aircraft ground handling services," Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, Elsevier, vol. 203(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:transe:v:203:y:2025:i:c:s1366554525003825
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tre.2025.104341
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