STRIVING for a zero carbon footprint within the next 25 years, Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) actively supports initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
This commitment was recently highlighted when Cebu Pacific successfully completed an aircraft turnaround at MCIA using exclusively zero-emission electric ground support equipment (GSE), a first in the Philippines for a private airline.
In a phone interview with SunStar Cebu on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, MCIA general manager and chief executive officer Julius Neri Jr. said this milestone marks a significant step forward in the airport’s sustainability efforts.
Neri explained that the initiative launched by the private airline on Tuesday, May 20, utilized the GSE that eliminates the use of diesel power, emitting zero car-
bon emissions.
He noted that this would result in a smaller carbon footprint for the airport and make it more environmentally friendly.
“They started this only in Cebu. It’s not yet being done in Manila or other airports in the country. We’re the first,” said Neri.
“The international airport community has set a target of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. We must continuously work toward this goal until we fully reach zero carbon emissions,” he added.
As Cebu Pacific pioneered the use of electric GSE, Neri encouraged all airlines and ground handlers to gradually transition to electric equipment for various operations, including loading bags and cargo, refueling, boarding and pushback. The process, entirely powered by GSE, significantly reduces car-
bon footprint.
He emphasized that while the goal is clear, achieving it will require significant investment in equipment from the private airlines operating at MCIA. However, he noted that the airport will gradually implement mandates and expect airlines to comply
over time.
In Aug. 14, 2024, MCIA also implemented Bridge-Mounted Equipment (BME) to provide a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional aircraft ground operations.
The BME services became fully operational on Aug. 1, with Cebu Pacific was noted as the first airline to adopt and utilize the technology.
BME refers to a system that integrates a Fixed Power Unit and a Pre-Conditioned Air unit directly onto the passenger boarding bridges at an airport terminal. These units provide essential services to parked aircraft without the need for the aircraft’s own jet fuel-powered Auxiliary Power Units or mobile ground support equipment.
MCIA is the first airport in the Philippines to fully utilize this technology, deploying it across 13 of its 18 boar-
ding bridges. / DPC