GPU
Pronunciation: G-P-U (spelled out)
Also written as: GPU — Ground Power Unit
Ground Power Unit — a mobile or fixed unit that supplies electrical power to a parked aircraft, reducing the need to run the aircraft's APU.
Full Definition
A Ground Power Unit (GPU) is a piece of ground support equipment that provides external electrical power to an aircraft while it is parked on the stand. Using a GPU reduces fuel consumption and noise by removing the need to operate the aircraft's Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and is part of sustainable ground operations programmes. GPUs may be mobile (self-propelled or towable) or fixed (pit-based). Editors must not confuse GPU with APU; the GPU is external airport equipment, while the APU is an onboard aircraft system. The abbreviation GPU should always be expanded on first use.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use: 'Ground Power Unit (GPU)'. Distinguish from APU (Auxiliary Power Unit), which is onboard the aircraft. GPU and APU are mutually exclusive power sources; connecting both simultaneously can cause equipment damage.
In Context
- "The ground crew connected the GPU to the aircraft within three minutes of block-in to enable immediate cabin cooling." — Ground Handling Turnaround Report
- "Policy requires that the GPU be disconnected and stowed before pushback commences." — Standard Operating Procedure — Aircraft Turnaround