An Architect of IAEMA: Andreas Funk on Building a Ground Support Equipment Legacy

Andreas Funk, a key figure in the formation of IAEMA in 2009, talks with Ground Support Worldwide Editor Jenny Lescohier about the evolution of the organization and its brain child, the International GSE Expo. Here are five main points of the discussion:

1. Founding of IAEMA

The International Airport Equipment Manufacturers Association (IAEMA) was created in response to manufacturers' frustrations with having to attend multiple GSE exhibitions in the U.S. in the same year. Andreas Funk and a group of three other industry leaders planned to start their own show, which led to the creation of IAEMA and the launch of the first GSE Expo in Las Vegas.

2. IAEMA's mission

The core mission of IAEMA is to represent GSE manufacturers and serve as a co-organizer for major industry exhibitions. The association's primary focus is to provide a unified, efficient platform for manufacturers to showcase their equipment. Funk notes that IAEMA's role could expand in the future to include standardization efforts and more active discussions with airports and ground handlers.

3. Key challenges for the GSE industry

The biggest challenge facing the industry is the global push for carbon neutrality, according to Funk. Airports worldwide are aiming to be carbon-free by 2050, which requires a massive shift from diesel-powered equipment to electric, Hydrogen or synthetic fuels. This transition is difficult due to several factors:

• The high cost of electric equipment, which can be double the price of diesel.

• The challenge of building adequate charging infrastructure at many, especially older, airports.

• The business model of ground handlers, who often operate on short-term licenses, making them hesitant to invest in expensive new equipment.

4. Goals for International GSE Expo

Funk shares his hopes for the future of the exposition, which he believes it is a highly successful event for GSE manufacturers. He expresses a desire for more airports, especially those in North America, to attend, suggesting that collaborating with organizations like the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) could help draw more airport personnel to the expo.

5. The role of collaboration

Funk emphasizes that reaching the goal of carbon neutrality requires close cooperation. This includes collaboration between manufacturers and airports to build the necessary infrastructure, and between manufacturers and ground handlers to navigate investment challenges. He stresses that success depends on working together for the future of the industry.