Autonomous ground support equipment will take centre stage at GSE Expo Europe 2026 when the event opens at FIL Lisbon from 15 to 17 September. A dedicated Autonomous Zone will showcase unmanned apron vehicles, fleet management tools and remote-operation systems, with exhibitors and speakers focusing on how automated ground handling can work safely and reliably in controlled airport environments.
The programme includes demonstrations and discussions on aircraft pushback, digital twins and the operational requirements for running automated equipment on the apron. Aurrigo will present its Auto-DollyTug autonomous aircraft handling vehicle, while Charlatte Manutention and Navya Mobility are due to feature the AT135. TractEasy will discuss Level 4 autonomous ground operations.
The show preview reflects a wider industry shift towards automation in ground handling, where airports and service providers are weighing connectivity, sensors, software and contingency planning for remote-control failures. Attention is also turning to resilience and safety as more equipment moves into connected, semi-autonomous and fully autonomous use on the ramp.