Aircraft Ground Support Equipment

Factory Distributors for Start Pac | Authorized Suppliers for Tronair Ground Equipment

Professional Ground Support Equipment from Europe's Aviation Parts Specialists

Airpart Supply is your European source for professional aircraft ground support equipment, serving as factory distributors for Start Pac portable starting units and authorized suppliers for Tronair's comprehensive range of ground support solutions. Operating from our Dublin warehouse facility, we stock an extensive selection of ground support equipment designed to support both general aviation and commercial operations throughout Europe. Our ground equipment inventory includes portable starting units, ground power units (GPUs), aircraft jacks, towbars, hydraulic power units, and specialized maintenance equipment from industry-leading manufacturers. Start Pac portable starting units represent American-manufactured excellence in aircraft starting technology, featuring both lithium-ion and lead-acid battery configurations. These portable units provide reliable 24V and 28V power for turbine and piston engine aircraft, offering superior starting performance compared to onboard batteries while extending aircraft battery life and reducing operational costs. Tronair ground support equipment, established since 1971, encompasses a comprehensive range of aviation GSE including aircraft jacks, towbars, tugs, ground power units, hydraulic power units, deicing equipment, lavatory service carts, and maintenance stands. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, Tronair delivers reliable solutions for commercial, civilian, and military aviation operations worldwide. Our European distribution network ensures competitive pricing, simplified VAT handling for EU customers, and faster delivery times compared to direct shipments from the UK or US. All ground equipment supplied through our Dublin facility meets EASA requirements and can be shipped throughout the European Union with full documentation and support.

Why Choose Airpart Supply for Ground Equipment in Europe?

European Distribution Advantages

• Dublin Warehouse Operations: Ground equipment stocked in our Irish facility for rapid European delivery, avoiding delays associated with UK or US shipments after Brexit.
• Simplified VAT Processing: EU-based invoicing eliminates complex import VAT calculations and customs procedures, streamlining procurement for European aviation operators.
• EASA Compliance Documentation: All ground support equipment supplied with appropriate European aviation documentation and certification where applicable.
• Competitive European Pricing: Direct factory relationships with Start Pac and Tronair enable competitive pricing for EU customers without additional import duties or Brexit-related surcharges.

Start Pac Product Benefits

• Portable Starting Capability: Lithium-ion units weigh 42% less and occupy 32% less space than equivalent lead-acid units, with twice the battery life and zero sulfation issues.
• Extended Aircraft Battery Life: Faster, cooler engine starts reduce stress on aircraft batteries and starter systems, lowering maintenance costs and extending component lifespan.
• Remote Operations Support: Battery-powered units operate without external AC power, essential for aircraft based at remote airfields or during mobile operations.
• Clean Power for Avionics: Ripple-free voltage output protects sensitive avionics and control systems during maintenance operations, software updates, and system testing.
• American Manufacturing: Made in USA with state-of-the-art battery and power management technology, featuring one-year warranty and comprehensive technical support.

Tronair Equipment Excellence

• Comprehensive GSE Range: Single-source supplier for diverse ground support requirements including jacking, towing, electrical power, hydraulics, and specialized maintenance equipment.
• ISO 9001:2015 Certification: Quality management system certified by NSF-ISR, ensuring consistent product quality and documented manufacturing processes.
• Established Since 1971: Over 50 years of aviation ground equipment experience, with proven reliability in commercial, military, and general aviation applications.
• Global Service Network: International repair facilities and technical support infrastructure ensure equipment uptime and long-term serviceability.
• Innovation Leadership: Extensive engineering capabilities drive continuous product development, incorporating customer feedback and emerging aviation requirements.

Operational Support for European Aviation

Our ground equipment inventory supports comprehensive aircraft maintenance requirements across Europe. Lycoming and Continental engine-powered aircraft benefit from reliable starting equipment and maintenance power supplies. Turbine operators receive appropriate 28V continuous power solutions for avionics testing and system programming.

Ground equipment complements our extensive inventory of engine parts, wheels and brakes, electrical components, and airframe parts, enabling complete maintenance solutions from a single European supplier.

Ground Equipment Applications & Technical Specifications

Start Pac Portable Starting Units

Start Pac portable starting units provide external starting power for turbine and piston aircraft, delivering superior performance compared to depleted or cold-soaked aircraft batteries. The units feature:

• Voltage Options: Available in 24V, 26V, and 28V configurations to match specific aircraft electrical system requirements and avoid overvoltage protection relay issues.
• Battery Technology: Lithium-ion models offer extended cycle life, rapid recharge capability, and lightweight portability; lead-acid models provide cost-effective starting power with proven reliability.
• Starting Capacity: High-amperage output spools turbines to higher revolutions per second before fuel injection, producing faster and cooler starts that extend engine component life.
• Field Recharging: Many models feature onboard chargers accepting standard AC power input, with some aircraft allowing generator back-charging during flight operations.

Ground Power Units (GPU) for Maintenance

Ground power units supply clean, regulated DC power to aircraft electrical systems without relying on aircraft batteries or requiring engine operation. Applications include:

• Avionics Programming: Continuous power for flight management system updates, software installations, and database programming without battery voltage fluctuations.
• System Testing: Powers avionics, lighting, and electrical systems during pre-flight checks, troubleshooting, and post-maintenance verification procedures.
• Training Operations: Enables cockpit familiarization and system operation training without consuming aircraft battery capacity or running engines.
• Glass Cockpit Support: Clean voltage output simulates aircraft-running conditions, essential for modern electronic flight instrument systems requiring stable power.

Tronair Ground Support Equipment Categories

Tronair manufactures specialized ground support equipment addressing diverse maintenance and operational requirements:

• Jacking Systems: Hydraulic tripod jacks and axle jacks with appropriate capacities for light aircraft through commercial jets, including jack pads and adapters for specific aircraft models.
• Aircraft Movement: Towbars, towbar heads, and Eagle Tug aircraft tractors for hangar positioning, ramp operations, and maintenance facility movements.
• Hydraulic Systems: Portable hydraulic power units (HPUs) supplying auxiliary hydraulic pressure for landing gear operation, brake servicing, and flight control testing during ground maintenance.
• Fluid Servicing: Lavatory service carts, potable water equipment, deicing fluid dispensers, and specialized fluid handling systems for aircraft servicing operations.
• Maintenance Platforms: Height-adjustable work stands, passenger stairs, and access platforms enabling safe technician access to engines, wings, and fuselage areas.
• Testing Equipment: Cabin pressure test units, oxygen servicing equipment, nitrogen charging systems, and specialized test equipment for aircraft system verification.

Equipment Selection Considerations

Selecting appropriate ground equipment requires consideration of aircraft type, operational requirements, and facility infrastructure:

• Aircraft Electrical System: Match starting unit voltage (24V/26V/28V) to aircraft specifications; verify continuous power requirements for avionics and system testing.
• Portability Requirements: Evaluate whether equipment needs air-portability for remote operations or can remain ground-based at maintenance facilities.
• Frequency of Use: Lithium-ion starting units justify premium pricing for high-utilization operations; lead-acid units suit occasional-use scenarios.
• AC Power Availability: Consider whether operations have consistent AC power access for recharging, or require fully autonomous battery-powered solutions.
• Aircraft Weight and Size: Ensure jacking equipment capacity matches aircraft maximum gross weight with appropriate safety margins.

Maintenance, Safety & Operational Guidance

Start Pac Equipment Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures reliable ground equipment performance and extends service life:

• Battery Maintenance: Lithium-ion batteries require no active maintenance but should be stored with partial charge when not in regular use; lead-acid batteries need periodic charging to prevent sulfation.
• Connection Inspection: Regularly inspect aircraft adapter cables for damage, ensure secure connections, and verify proper polarity to prevent equipment damage or safety hazards.
• Storage Conditions: Store units in dry environments within manufacturer-specified temperature ranges; protect from moisture, extreme temperatures, and physical damage.
• Charging Practices: Follow manufacturer charging specifications; avoid overcharging lead-acid batteries and ensure lithium-ion units use appropriate charging equipment.

Safe Ground Equipment Operation

Ground support equipment safety requires adherence to manufacturer procedures and aviation maintenance practices:

• Operator Training: Ensure personnel receive proper training in ground equipment operation, electrical system hazards, and emergency procedures before using starting units or power supplies.
• Aircraft Procedures: Follow aircraft manufacturer procedures for external power connections, verify correct polarity, and ensure master switch positions comply with maintenance manual requirements.
• Personal Protective Equipment: Utilize appropriate PPE including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection during ground operations and equipment handling.
• Equipment Inspection: Conduct pre-use inspections of cables, connectors, and equipment condition; remove damaged equipment from service until repaired by qualified technicians.

Tronair Equipment Service Support

Tronair ground equipment benefits from comprehensive manufacturer support infrastructure:

• Authorized Repair Facilities: Global network of authorized service centers provides equipment repairs, overhauls, and warranty service for Tronair products and associated brands.
• Technical Documentation: Operation manuals, maintenance procedures, and parts information available from Tronair supporting equipment throughout its service life.
• Parts Availability: Replacement parts and consumables stocked through distribution network ensuring equipment uptime and preventing extended downtime.
• Technical Support: Factory technical support assists with equipment selection, troubleshooting, and application guidance for aviation maintenance operations.

Complementary Aviation Products & Services

Ground equipment operations integrate with comprehensive aircraft maintenance requiring additional aviation products and services from Airpart Supply's European inventory:

Engine Components & Accessories

Aircraft powered by Lycoming engines require magnetos, spark plugs, oil filters, and alternators available through our Dublin facility. Continental engine parts including fuel injection systems and engine accessories complement ground equipment operations.

Airframe & Landing Gear Components

Aircraft tyres, wheels, and brakes from manufacturers including Michelin, Goodyear, and Cleveland require jacking equipment for replacement and maintenance. Airframe components and hardware complete aircraft maintenance requirements.

Electrical & Avionics Support

Electrical components and lighting systems require ground power for testing and programming. Aircraft batteries and battery components work in conjunction with ground starting equipment to ensure reliable aircraft electrical systems.

Maintenance Tools & Equipment

Aviation tool kits, Grypmat non-slip tool mats, and specialized equipment support ground operations and maintenance procedures. Aviation oils and greases from AeroShell complete servicing requirements.

Aircraft-Specific Applications

Ground equipment serves diverse aircraft including Cessna, Piper, and Beechcraft models. Aircraft-specific components including engine mounts and specialized parts complement ground equipment operations for comprehensive maintenance support.

European Ground Equipment Solutions from Dublin

Contact Airpart Supply for ground equipment requirements, technical specifications, and delivery information for EU aviation operations. Our team provides application guidance, product recommendations, and comprehensive support for Start Pac and Tronair equipment selection.

Email: [email protected] | Phone: +44 (0)1494 450366