Solutions for sustainable aviation

PCA

PRE-CONDITIONED AIR

product info

PCA

AN EFFICIENT AND RELIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO APU DELIVERS PRE-CONDITIONED AIR EFFICIENTLY AT THE GATE, REDUCING FUEL BURN, CO₂ EMISSIONS, AND OVERALL APU USAGE DURING AIRCRAFT TURNAROUND.

PCA

Features

APU Replacement for Lower Emissions

Provides clean, ground-based air conditioning to replace aircraft APUs, significantly reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions during ground operations.

High Performance in All Climates

Delivers consistent cooling performance in continental, tropical, and desert environments, adaptable to all aircraft types.

Energy-Efficient Technology

Powered by direct expansion cooling, offering strong energy savings and optimized power use for airport operations.

PCA

Technical
Specification

  • LDX
  • LW
  • LWX
  • LWX-SF
Direct Expansion
  • Ground Mounted version
  • Bridge mounted version
Refrigerant
  • GWP below 750
Performance & Compatibility

Models from Code C/NB (A320/B737) up to Code F/Super Jumbo (A380)

  • 0,8 to 6,5Kg/min
  • Discharge Temp. -2°C to 50°C
  • Pressure: up to 10.000Pa
Compatible Ground Solutions

Associated with PCA Stockers (Reel & Telescopic), Telescopic duct, Pits, Yoke, Air SideWinder…branded Smart Airport Systems and 400Hz Ground Power unit via SMART POWER CONTROL option

Connected to Central System
  • Ground Mounted version
Refrigerant
  • NA – Water Only
  • Chilled/Hot Water loop: -7/80°C
Performance & Compatibility

Models from Code C/NB(A320/B737) up to Code F/Super Jumbo (A380)

  • 0,8 to 6,5Kg/min
  • Discharge Temp. -4°C to 50°C
  • Pressure: up to 10.000Pa
Compatible Ground Solutions

Associated with PCA Stockers (Reel & Telescopic), Telescopic duct, Pits, Yoke, Air SideWinder…branded Smart Airport Systems and 400Hz Ground Power unit via SMART POWER CONTROL option

Connected to Central System
  • Ground Mounted version
Refrigerant
  • Chilled Water + 1 Direct Expansion
  • Chilled/Hot Water loop: 6/80°C
  • Refrigerant with GWP below 750
Performance & Compatibility

Models from Code C/NB(A320/B737) up to Code F/Super Jumbo (A380)

  • 0,8 to 6,5Kg/min
  • Discharge Temp. -2°C to 50°C
  • Pressure: up to 10.000Pa
Compatible Ground Solutions

Associated with PCA Stockers (Reel & Telescopic), Telescopic duct, Pits, Yoke, Air SideWinder…branded Smart Airport Systems and 400Hz Ground Power unit via SMART POWER CONTROL option

Connected to Central System
  • Ground Mounted version
Refrigerant
  • Chilled Water + 2 Direct Expansion coils (SUB-FREEZE)
  • Chilled/Hot Water loop: 6/80°C
  • Refrigerant with GWP below 750
Performance & Compatibility

Models from Code C/NB(A320/B737) up to Code F/Super Jumbo (A380)

  • 0,8 to 6,5Kg/min
  • Discharge Temp. -25°C (SUB-FREEZE) to 50°C
  • Pressure: up to 10.000Pa
Compatible Ground Solutions

Associated with PCA Stockers (Reel & Telescopic), Telescopic duct, Pits, Yoke, Air SideWinder…branded Smart Airport Systems and 400Hz Ground Power unit via SMART POWER CONTROL option

In situ

Product
Gallery

Milan Airports

4 LDX 20 BB Units connected to various PCA services hoses

– Ground Mounted associated with Telescopic Duct

– Bridge Mounted associated with PCA hose Retriever

UAE – Dubai – Emirates Engineering center

3 LDX units installed in hangar

with each an external Condenser and pre-fabricated airduct

Aeroporti di Roma

8 LDX 20 BB + LTHR & Skywinder
Power with Smart Power Control

Smart Power Combo 20 energized with 1 Single Power supply

F.A.Q

Here you will find the most frequently asked questions from our users about PCA.

Why do aircraft need pre-conditioned air on the ground?

Aircraft environmental systems rely on conditioned air for cabin cooling or heating when the engines and APU are off. PCA provides regulated temperature and humidity to maintain passenger comfort and avionics cooling without running noisy, fuel-burning onboard systems.

Is the PCA unit compatible with all aircraft types?

Most commercial jets are equipped with 8 inch PCA connector

Narrow Body / Code C / (A320,B737..) equipped with 1 PCA connector

Wide Body/ Code E / (A350, B787, B777) equipped with 2 PCA connectors

Super Jumbo / Code F (A380) equipped with 4 PCA connectors

How many PCA units are needed per gate?

Most commercial jets are equipped with 8 inch PCA connector

Narrow Body / Code C / (A320,B737..) operating with 1 PCA unit

Wide Body/ Code E / (A350, B787, B777) operating with 1 PCA 2 Outputs or 2 PCA 1 Output each

Super Jumbo / Code F (A380) operating with 1 PCA enabling the connection of 4 PCA connectors or 2 PCA 2 outputs each

Contact

Let’s talk

Have questions or need more information?
Contact Smart Airport Systems and let’s shape the future of sustainable aviation together.

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Daily CO2
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