What is the Ground Power Unit (GPU) used for?

What is the Ground Power Unit (GPU) used for?

• A. External plug-in to provide power at the gate.
• B. In-flight power supply
• C. Powers the APU
• D. Replaces the main generators in flight

Answer: (A)

The Ground Power Unit is an external power source used when an aircraft is on the ground, typically at the gate, to power the aircraft’s electrical systems without running the APU or engines. It keeps avionics, lighting, cabin climate control, and preflight checks powered while parked, helping preserve batteries and save fuel and noise. In flight, power comes from the aircraft’s own generators (driven by the engines or the APU), not from a Ground Power Unit. The GPU also doesn’t power the APU itself; it’s used to supply power on the ground so the APU can stay off or operate as needed. It doesn’t replace the main generators while the aircraft is in motion or in flight.

The Ground Power Unit is an external power source used when an aircraft is on the ground, typically at the gate, to power the aircraft’s electrical systems without running the APU or engines. It keeps avionics, lighting, cabin climate control, and preflight checks powered while parked, helping preserve batteries and save fuel and noise.

In flight, power comes from the aircraft’s own generators (driven by the engines or the APU), not from a Ground Power Unit. The GPU also doesn’t power the APU itself; it’s used to supply power on the ground so the APU can stay off or operate as needed. It doesn’t replace the main generators while the aircraft is in motion or in flight.