Kochi: Taking another significant step toward sustainable airport operations, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is introducing Bridge-Mounted Equipment (BME) at a project cost of Rs. 15.04 crores.
The project will provide parked aircraft with essential electrical power and conditioned air directly from airport infrastructure. It comprises 10 bridge-mounted 90 kVA Ground Power Units (GPUs), 10 bridge-mounted 90 TR Pre-Conditioned Air (PCA) units, besides one mobile GPU and one mobile PCA unit.
With the commissioning of the BME system, aircraft parked at aerobridges will be able to draw electricity and conditioned air directly from airport infrastructure, substantially reducing dependence on APUs and diesel-powered ground equipment. The system is expected to prevent approximately 122–145 kg of carbon dioxide emissions per hour of operation, while also reducing noise levels and contributing to a cleaner and safer apron environment.
CIAL is entering the global aviation consultancy sector, drawing on more than two and a half decades of experience in airport development and operations. The new initiative, CIAL Aviation Consultancy and Expert Services (ACES), and the BME facility will be inaugurated by Chief Minister and CIAL Chairman, Shri V D Satheesan, on September 24, 2026.
Through ACES, CIAL will offer its expertise to airports and aviation organisations in India and abroad in areas including airport planning and construction, engineering, safety, commercial management, digitalisation and sustainable development.
A key component of the service will be assistance in regulatory and statutory processes. Drawing on CIAL’s experience in airport development, ACES will support clients in engaging with government agencies, regulatory authorities and other statutory bodies to obtain the approvals and clearances required for aviation projects.
CIAL ACES will function through two principal verticals. Aviation Consultancy and Advisory will provide strategic support in airport master planning, construction, commercial management and regulatory affairs. Airport Services, Audit and Technical Support will deploy CIAL experts directly at client airports to provide technical assistance, conduct audits and undertake interventions aimed at improving operational performance.
The services will also cover airside infrastructure, cargo, ground handling, real estate development, safety-related systems and other specialised areas of airport operations. Unlike conventional consultancy models, ACES is designed to provide hands-on support extending from advisory services to practical implementation.
Kerala Biz News