Unveiling the Power of Aircraft Air start Units: A Vital Component in Aviation Ground Support -


Welcome back to the Omega Aviation blog, where we continue to explore the intricacies of airport ground support equipment. In our seventh blog post, we delve into the world of Aircraft Air Start Units (ASUs), shedding light on their significance and the crucial role they play in ensuring seamless aircraft operations.


Understanding Aircraft Air Start Units:

An Aircraft Air Start Unit, or ASU, is a vital piece of equipment used to initiate the engines of an aircraft. This process, known as a "jet start," involves providing the necessary compressed air to start the aircraft engines.

Having an Aircraft Air Start Unit on hand is akin to having insurance for aircraft operators, offering a crucial backup solution in case the aircraft's Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) faces any operational challenges. In the event of APU failure, the Air Start Unit ensures the ability to initiate aircraft engines, guaranteeing operational readiness and minimizing downtime.

Additionally, ASUs can be employed for the essential task of supplying air for air conditioning purposes, ensuring a comfortable environment inside the aircraft cabin during ground operations.


Air Start Units are rated in PPM (Pounds per Minute), a measurement that indicates the unit's capacity to deliver compressed air to start aircraft engines. This rating is crucial for assessing compatibility with various aircraft types. While exceeding the specified PPM is generally acceptable, falling short may result in inadequate air supply, potentially leading to a hot start. Thus, maintaining or surpassing the recommended PPM is essential for reliable unit performance and preventing the risk of a hot start, underscoring the importance of accurate air delivery for successful aircraft engine initiation.


How Does an Aircraft Air Start Unit Work?

ASUs operate on the principle of delivering high-pressure air directly into the aircraft's engine starter system. This controlled burst of air initiates the engine rotation, allowing it to achieve self-sustaining speed and eventually starting the aircraft. This procedure is critical for both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, making ASUs an indispensable part of ground support equipment.


Types of Aircraft Air Start Units:

Air Start Units come in two main types: continuous flow and bottle type units. At Omega Aviation, we offer both options to cater to the diverse needs of our customers.


For narrow-body aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, we recommend our reliable continuous flow units, including the TUG TMAC-150 and the TLD ACE 600-2180, with 150 PPM and 180 PPM capabilities, respectively. With simple single-hose outputs, these units ensure efficient and swift jet starts, contributing to the overall operational efficiency of these aircraft.


For servicing wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 767 or Airbus A330, Omega Aviation provides the TLD ACE 600-2250 Air Start Unit, which offers capability of 250 PPM. This robust equipment guarantees optimal performance and reliability. With dual-hose outputs, this equipment meets the specific requirements of most large aircraft.


Why Choose Omega Aviation?

Omega Aviation stands out as a trusted supplier of used and refurbished airport ground support equipment, including a wide range of ASUs. Our equipment is meticulously inspected and restored to ensure it is in good working condition, ready to meet the demands of the aviation industry from day one.


Multiple Options Available:

At Omega Aviation, we understand the diverse needs of our customers. Therefore, we offer multiple options for ASUs, allowing you to choose the unit that best suits your operational requirements.


In conclusion, In the complex world of aviation ground support equipment, the Aircraft Air Start Unit emerges as a key player in facilitating smooth aircraft operations. Omega Aviation takes pride in being a reliable and reputable supplier of ASUs, committed to providing top-notch equipment that meets industry standards. Choose Omega Aviation for your ASU needs, and experience the difference of working with a trusted partner in the aviation industry.