BANGKOK, 14 August 2026 – Thai AirAsia is taking another step towards lower-carbon ground operations with the pilot of two innovative GUINAULT Combo Units at its main hub, Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). The deployment marks an important step in localising AirAsia Group’s regional efforts to reduce emissions from ground operations, with Thai AirAsia becoming the third airline within the AirAsia group to introduce this technology.

The GF15 Combo combines a Ground Power Unit (GPU) and an Air Conditioning Unit (ACU) into a single mobile piece of ground support equipment. It supplies both electricity and conditioned air to aircraft while they are parked at the gate, allowing the aircraft’s Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), which burns jet fuel, to be switched off during turnaround operations. This helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining cabin comfort for passengers.

The two units were commissioned by GUINAULT in July 2026 and are currently undergoing trials at DMK, with testing expected to conclude by the end of August. Ground staff training is also underway, with the airline targeting full-scale operations in August.

The technology is expected to deliver significant environmental and cost benefits. Based on a planned utilisation of 10 hours per day across the two units, Thai AirAsia estimates potential annual savings of up to US$401,317. Under optimal operating conditions, the Combo Units can reduce CO₂ emissions from ground operations by up to 90%, with the two units projected to avoid up to 1,350 tonnes of CO₂ annually.

Mr. Chatupong Hongwiset , Head of Ramp and Ground Service Equipment, said: “This marks another milestone in our decarbonisation efforts in adopting Combo Units. While much of the focus is on reducing emissions in the air, ground operations also present an important opportunity to cut our carbon footprint. We are excited to partner with GUINAULT on practical solutions that reduce emissions while keeping our guests comfortable throughout their journey.”

The initiative complements Thai AirAsia’s broader existing fuel efficiency programme, The introduction of the Combo Units further expands these efforts beyond flight operations and into the ground environment, supporting the airline’s broader decarbonisation strategy.