StandardAero has partnered with Green Taxi Solutions (GTS) to lead the FAA certification of GTS’s Zero Engine Taxi (eTaxi) system, a fully electric aircraft taxiing solution designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during ground operations.

StandardAero, a major independent MRO provider, will apply its experience in regulatory approvals to lead the FAA certification process, beginning with the Embraer E175. The certification process is projected to take two to three years and will later expand to additional commercial and military aircraft. Approvals from EASA and ANAC (Brazil) are also planned.

How the Zero Engine Taxi System Works

The Zero Engine Taxi (eTaxi) system enables aircraft to taxi using only the auxiliary power unit (APU) instead of the main engines. This technology is expected to save up to 80,000 gallons of fuel and $250,000 per aircraft annually, while also reducing brake wear, noise, and turnaround times.

“Partnering with StandardAero positions us to scale efficiently and meet certification demands,” said David Valaer, Founder and President of Green Taxi Solutions. “This is a practical solution that aligns with industry goals for cost savings and reduced environmental impact.”

The partnership is supported by a $5.6 million FAA CLEEN (Continuous Lower Energy, Emissions and Noise) program grant. The goal is to accelerate the development and certification of the eTaxi system, helping commercial and military operators lower operating costs and environmental impact without requiring major infrastructure changes.

Brian Skrobarcek, Enterprise VP of Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability at StandardAero, stated: “This partnership supports our GreenERmro™ initiatives and advances a near-term solution that delivers measurable benefits to operators.”

Brett Ulrici, Sales and Business Development – Certification Services at StandardAero, called the system “retrofit-ready” and highlighted its ability to reduce emissions without changing flight operations or airport infrastructure.