Quantcast

Delta's Ground Support Equipment team ensures seamless airport operations

Delta's Ground Support Equipment team ensures seamless airport operations
Research
Webp qj5munmfs624bdp2bm4w8syr8zw8
Joe Petrie Editor & Chief | AviationPros

When observing the activity at an airport, one can see a coordinated effort to ensure travelers reach their destinations. This includes baggage being transported, jet bridges connecting planes, and various carts, trucks, belts, and ramps in operation. However, the unseen efforts of Delta’s Ground Support Equipment (GSE) team are crucial in maintaining these operations.

The GSE team is tasked with maintaining Delta’s machinery across airports globally. Delta operates over 400,000 pieces of equipment that require regular servicing to function safely and reliably. The skilled GSE mechanics and technicians work continuously to keep systems operational and customers satisfied.

“Just about every minute of the day, a GSE team member is unjamming strap, wheel or zipper in a bag system somewhere that caused a bag to get stuck,” said Lourens Van Aswegen, Director – GSE. “Our team also does heavy maintenance work every day like changing engines, refurbishing transmissions, overhauling AC systems and much more. They fix the little things, like flat tires, and the big things, like installing jet bridges onto buildings. They truly do it all.”

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The GSE team comprises Ground Maintenance Mechanics (GMMs) and Ground Maintenance Technicians (GMTs), who possess expertise in electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. Their skills are vital for maintaining low Mishandled Bag Rates and ensuring timely departures. Central support teams within GSE cover engineering, asset management, analytics, safety, and maintenance planning.

Shawn Burke, Lead GMT in Boston explained what GSE means to travelers: “As you look out the terminal window at all the moving equipment,” he said,“GSE is the maintenance department that keeps everything on the ground up and running safely and efficiently including the jetway you're walking down to get on the plane and the baggage system moving your luggage with you.”

Delta remains committed to investing in its future through its GSE division. The mobile GSE fleet is valued at over $1 billion with significant investments made in new equipment over recent years. Many of these investments include electric vehicles aimed at energy efficiency; by year-end 39% of Delta's core GSE fleet will be electric.

As they solve problems daily, GSE members expand their knowledge of new technologies. Anthony Canali from Boston shared his excitement about learning new machinery: “I got to see the trucks that I work on pretty regularly in wintertime from just frame to complete,” he said after visiting a truck manufacturing facility in Orlando.“Then seeing them arrive on tractor trailers coming into our shop was really cool.”

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Recently, Flying Food Group, Inc. held a celebration at its LAV facility to mark Hispanic Heritage Month.

Oct 29, 2025

Flying Food Group, Inc. recently held an employee appreciation event at its LIH facility, coinciding with Halloween festivities.

Oct 29, 2025

Emirates Airline hosted members of UAE Team Emirates XRG at its Group Headquarters, marking the team's successful season in international cycling.

Oct 28, 2025

Amazon has announced that its KSBD Air Hub in San Bernardino recognized its September High Flyers for their outstanding commitment to the company's 16 Leadership Principles.

Oct 28, 2025

Amazon announced that employees at its KSBD Air Hub in San Bernardino participated in the 2025 Pink on Parade for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Oct 28, 2025

The ShebaMiles loyalty program, operated by Ethiopian Airlines for over 26 years, has more than 5.38 million members and offers four membership tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.

Oct 28, 2025