A ground power unit (GPU) supplies electrical power to a parked aircraft so crews can run avionics, lighting and cabin systems without the auxiliary power unit. Victory GSE sells and leases used portable and hangar GPUs from brands such as Hobart, TLD, Stewart & Stevenson and FMC. Every unit shown below is in stock in Los Angeles. Request a quote for pricing and lease terms.
GROUND POWER UNITS
Used Aircraft Ground Power Units (GPU) for Sale or Lease
AC vs. DC Ground Power Units
Choose a GPU by the type of power your aircraft accepts. Most airliners and larger business jets use 400 Hz AC power at 115/200 volts, three phase. Many smaller jets, turboprops and military aircraft need 28.5 VDC for servicing and engine starts. Some GPUs deliver both at once. Tronair’s 90 kVA diesel GPU, for example, supplies 400 Hz AC and 28.5 VDC at the same time (Tronair, 2026).
| GPU type | Output | Brands in our inventory |
|---|---|---|
| Portable AC GPU | 90 kVA, 400 Hz | Hobart, TLD, Arvico, Stewart & Stevenson |
| High-output portable GPU | 90 to 140 kVA, 400 Hz | Davco, Stewart & Stevenson |
| Portable DC GPU | 28.5 VDC | Hobart Jet-Ex, Tronair |
| Hangar GPU | 90 to 120 kVA, 400 Hz | Hobart, FMC |
Portable vs. Hangar GPUs
A portable GPU is engine driven and towed to the aircraft on the ramp, at remote stands or on the flight line. A hangar GPU is a solid-state power converter that plugs into facility power, so it runs indoors with no engine exhaust. Choose portable units for flexibility. Choose hangar units where shop power is available and the aircraft stays in one bay.
How to Size a Ground Power Unit
Size a GPU by its output type and its kVA or amperage rating. Start with the ground power requirement in the aircraft maintenance manual, then confirm these points:
- Voltage and frequency: 115/200 VAC at 400 Hz, 28.5 VDC, or both.
- Rating: kVA for AC units, continuous and peak amps for DC units.
- Cables: length and connector type for each aircraft, plus voltage drop on long runs.
- Power source: diesel for ramp work, facility power for hangar units.
Tronair lists DC options that include gas, diesel and solid-state rectifier units (Tronair), so match the power source to where the unit will work. The FAA’s Advisory Circular 00-34B lists providing electrical power as part of aircraft servicing and covers safe practices around parked aircraft.
Ground Power and Airport Emissions Rules
Ground power lets a parked aircraft run its systems without burning fuel in the APU. Airports in air quality nonattainment areas support this through the FAA’s VALE program. As of October 2023, VALE grants had funded 141 projects at 58 airports, including gate electrification (FAA, 2023). Those projects are expected to cut ozone emissions by 1,768 tons per year.
Buy or Lease a Used GPU
Buy a GPU for a fixed operation, such as an FBO, MRO hangar or flight line. Lease one to cover a new contract, a seasonal schedule or an aircraft type your current units cannot power. Victory GSE offers both. Pair a GPU with an aircraft air conditioning unit or an air start unit for full support at the aircraft.
Ground Power Unit FAQ
What does a ground power unit do?
A ground power unit supplies electrical power to a parked aircraft. Crews use it to run avionics, lighting and cabin systems, and to start engines on DC aircraft, without running the aircraft APU.
What is the difference between 400 Hz and 28 VDC ground power?
400 Hz AC power at 115/200 volts runs most airliners and large business jets. 28.5 VDC power runs many smaller jets, turboprops and military aircraft and supports their engine starts. Combination units supply both outputs.
What size GPU do I need?
Match the GPU kVA rating, or DC amperage, to the ground power requirement in your aircraft maintenance manual. Most AC units in our inventory are rated at 90 kVA, and some reach 120 to 140 kVA.
Can one GPU serve both AC and DC aircraft?
Yes, if it is a combination unit with both 400 Hz AC and 28.5 VDC outputs. Tronair’s 90 kVA diesel GPU, for example, supplies both at the same time. Otherwise you need a separate AC unit and DC unit.
Do you lease ground power units?
Yes. Victory GSE offers used ground power units for sale or lease. Call (323) 581-7272 or send a quote request.
Do you ship GPUs outside Los Angeles?
Yes. Our team coordinates delivery to airports, FBOs, MROs and operators across the US and worldwide.