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This glossary is written for virtual airline and flight simulation use within Virtual Air Canada Airline. It is not intended as a real-world aviation reference.
A Ground Power Unit is an external electrical power source used to supply AC or DC power to an aircraft while it is on the ground. GPUs are connected to the aircraft through a standardized ground power receptacle, typically located near the nose gear or on the lower fuselage. By using GPU power, the aircraft can run its avionics, lighting, air conditioning, and other electrical systems without consuming fuel from the APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) or draining the aircraft’s batteries. This reduces fuel burn, lowers emissions on the ramp, extends APU service life, and decreases noise levels in gate areas. GPUs come in several forms. Fixed gate-integrated systems are built into jetways at busy airports and provide power directly through a cable. Mobile GPUs are self-contained diesel or electric units that can be driven to any stand. Modern airports and airlines increasingly use electric GPUs as part of sustainability programs, eliminating local diesel emissions on the ramp. Before connecting external power, ground crews verify that the GPU output voltage and frequency match the aircraft’s requirements - commercial jet aircraft typically require 115V AC at 400Hz. The cockpit external power panel allows pilots to select GPU power and verify its quality before applying it to aircraft buses.

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In Virtual Airline Operations

Many high-fidelity add-ons model GPU connections as part of the cold-and-dark startup procedure. In aircraft such as the FlyByWire A32NX or PMDG 737, connecting external power before APU start is a realistic and recommended step when departing from a gate. Some ground service add-ons (like GSX) simulate GPU connections visually on the ramp, adding further realism to preflight procedures.
  • APU - Auxiliary Power Unit
  • FOD - Foreign Object Debris
  • ECAM - Electronic Centralized Aircraft Monitor