Hawaiian Airlines Electrifies Its Ground Fleet at Honolulu Airport
Following an exhaustive evaluation process and rigorous deliberation by its operational teams, Hawaiian Airlines has selected the Charlatte T137 baggage tractor, the Charlatte CBL2000 belt loader, and the Kalmar TBL100 towbarless pushback tractor for its fleet renewal program. According to the airline, Charlatte modified the design of the belt loader to improve its compatibility with narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, as well as other types of planes.
The new electric equipment incorporates additional safety features, including enclosed cabs designed to protect baggage tractor operators from weather conditions, and an advanced sensor-guided approach system integrated into the belt loaders.
The electric fleet is used to service approximately 180 daily arrivals and departures at Honolulu Airport, handling more than 8,500 checked bags per day. Hawaiian Airlines expects the acquisition of this new equipment to improve operational efficiency and working conditions for ramp personnel by reducing noise levels and eliminating engine exhaust emissions.
Hawaiian Airlines has announced that the electrification of its ground support fleet at its Honolulu hub—its second-largest hub—marks a significant step in its long-term sustainability strategy. "By investing in more modern equipment that operates more cleanly, with less noise, and greater efficiency, we are reducing our environmental impact. This, in turn, allows us to conduct operations more safely and reliably. Furthermore, this investment improves the work environment for our teams and enhances the travel experience for our guests." The electrification project is supported by charging infrastructure installed by the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT). The state agency has deployed 30 charging stations—comprising a total of 60 charging points—at various locations throughout the airport. Four additional charging stations, which will provide eight more charging points, are currently under construction and are expected to become operational during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Furthermore, the HDOT is providing Hawaiian Airlines and other airlines that operate electric ground support equipment (GSE) with free access to this charging infrastructure for the first two years.
"Hawaiian Airlines' new fleet of electric ground support equipment represents a significant contribution to our efforts to ensure Hawaii's long-term energy security," stated the HDOT. As part of this collaborative effort, the HDOT is granting Hawaiian Airlines and other partner airlines that use electric GSE free access to the charging stations for a two-year period.
