The role of the GPU is to provide electrical power to the aircraft on the ground, instead of using the APU.

• A. It provides propulsion power
• B. It provides electrical power on the ground
• C. It provides fuel to the engines
• D. It provides pressurised air for cabin

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a Ground Power Unit is used to supply electrical power to the aircraft while it’s on the ground. By plugging into a GPU, the aircraft can run lights, avionics, climate control, and other systems without starting the APU or burning fuel. This keeps the APU off, saving fuel, reducing noise, and cutting emissions during boarding and preparation.

The GPU’s job is strictly electrical power; it doesn’t propel the aircraft, doesn’t feed fuel to the engines, and doesn’t provide cabin pressurization. Propulsion comes from the engines (or the APU if needed for starting), fuel delivery is handled by the aircraft’s fuel system, and cabin pressurization is managed by the environmental control system using bleed air, not directly by the GPU.