Menzies introduces renewable fuel for ground handling operations at Heathrow and Gatwick

Menzies Aviation is rolling out Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) at its ground handling operations at Heathrow and Gatwick airports, marking a significant step in the company’s decarbonisation strategy.

image: Menzies

The adoption of HVO is intended to deliver immediate carbon reductions, while Menzies continues to expand electric ground support equipment across its UK network. The dual approach, says the company, enables it to reduce the carbon footprint of its operations swiftly, while advancing its long-term electrification and sustainability objectives.

Menzies Aviation offers a wide range of services to airlines worldwide. Its ground handling teams provide day-to-day airport operations, supporting airlines with passengers, baggage, and aircraft turnaround.

The adoption of HVO forms part of Menzies’ broader Electric First programme, which aims to transition ground support equipment to electric power wherever possible.

John Geddes, Chief Governance & Sustainability Officer and Company Secretary at Menzies, said, “Advancing the use of HVO at two of our largest UK ground handling operations represents another important milestone in our journey to decarbonise and achieve net-zero by 2045.

“HVO provides an immediate reduction in emissions while we continue to invest in electric ground support equipment as part of our Electric First initiative. By combining renewable fuel alternatives with our long-term electrification strategy, we’re taking tangible action to support our customers’ sustainability goals and the wider industry’s net-zero ambitions.”