SIST EN 1915-2:2026
(Main)Aircraft ground support equipment - General requirements - Part 2: Stability and strength requirements, calculations and test methods
- Abstract
This document specifies the conditions to be taken into consideration when calculating the strength and the stability of GSE. It also specifies general test methods.
This part of EN 1915 is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 1915-1:2023, EN ISO 31915-3:2026 (for self-propelled GSE) and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009, and with the relevant part of EN 12312 to give the requirements for the types of GSE within the scope of EN 12312.
When EN 12312 does not contain a relevant part for a GSE, EN 1915 (all parts) gives general requirements that may apply, although additional machine specific requirements, to be determined by the manufacturer, are likely to be required.
NOTE The methods given in this document demonstrate one way of achieving an acceptable safety level. Methods that produce comparable results can be used.
This document does not establish additional requirements for the following:
a) operation elsewhere than in an airport environment;
b) operation in severe conditions, e.g. ambient temperature below −20 °C or over 50 °C, tropical or saturated salty atmospheric environment;
c) hazards caused by wind velocity in excess of the figures given in this document;
d) earthquake, flood, landslide, lightning and more generally any natural catastrophe.
This document is not applicable to GSE which are manufactured before the date of publication by CEN of this document.
- Status
- Published
- Public Enquiry End Date
- 17-Sep-2025
- Publication Date
- 29-Sep-2026
- Technical Committee
- I13 - Imaginarni 13
- Current Stage
- 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
- Start Date
- 29-Sep-2026
- Due Date
- 04-Dec-2026
- Completion Date
- 30-Sep-2026
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is the Slovenian adoption of EN 1915-2:2026, published by SIST for aircraft ground support equipment (GSE). It specifies how to calculate and verify the stability and strength of GSE, and it gives general test methods for designers, manufacturers, and test laboratories. The document is a Type C standard, so its machine-specific requirements are intended to be used with the broader safety standards for the same equipment family.
What does SIST EN 1915-2:2026 specify?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 specifies the conditions to consider when calculating GSE strength and stability, together with the general methods used to verify them by test. It is intended to be used with EN 1915-1, EN ISO 31915-3 for self-propelled GSE, EN 1915-4, and the relevant part of EN 12312 for the particular GSE category.
The standard stays within airport use and does not add requirements for use outside an airport environment, severe climates, wind beyond the document’s figures, or natural catastrophes. It also applies only to GSE covered by the CEN publication date. The document is organized into scope, normative references, terms and definitions, hazard listing, safety requirements, verification, and information for use, followed by informative and normative annexes.
| Annex | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Annex A | List of significant hazards related to this standard |
| Annex B | Examples for load geometry used in stability calculations |
| Annex C | Wind shape factors used in wind load calculations |
| Annex ZA | Relationship to the essential requirements of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 |
What are the key requirements of SIST EN 1915-2:2026?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 focuses on calculation methods for metal structures, safety-related machine parts, and stability under realistic operating loads. It also defines how to verify those calculations by type testing and how to document the results.
Calculation approach and documentation
Clause 5.2.1 allows finite element analysis, truss structure analysis, hand calculations, or combinations of these. The chosen method and its relevance to the specific GSE type have to be stated in the technical file. In practice, that means the manufacturer must be able to show why a calculation method fits the machine and where any unusual formulas come from.
The same clause requires safe stress levels to be demonstrated for the supporting structure, using second-order theory or large-displacement analysis where needed. If test results exist, they are used to adjust the calculation parameters. This matters because the standard expects the structure to be assessed as it really behaves, not only as a simple static model.
Loads, load combinations, and strength checks
Clause 5.2.2 requires the strength calculation to consider dead weight, live load, local loads, snow load, dynamic forces, resonance, and wind load. Loads must be applied in the worst positions, values, and directions. For the reader, this means the analysis must cover realistic worst cases, not only the nominal working position.
Clause 5.2.3 requires the technical file to identify material type, grade, composition, weldability, and relevant mechanical properties. Clause 5.2.4 sets stress factors for constructional metal and links them to weld quality where applicable. Clause 5.2.5 requires verification of combined plane stresses, and Clause 5.2.6 requires a fatigue calculation unless the duty is low enough to fall below the document’s fatigue threshold. In practice, this means the structure is checked for both single-event overload and repeated use over time.
Safety-related parts and lifting systems
Clause 5.3 gives separate requirements for chain lifting elements, cylinders, pipes, hoses, wire ropes, winches, winching plants, and stabilizers. The document sets minimum safety margins for lifting chains and wire ropes, higher margins when persons are lifted, and minimum breaking strength for terminations. It also requires suitable rope material and construction, plus compliance with ISO 2408 for wire ropes.
For hydraulic lifting systems, cylinders, pipes, and hoses are checked against maximum working pressure in line with EN ISO 4413. The clause also requires resistance to pressure surges, buckling checks for compressed rods, and hose burst pressure margins. For winches and winching plants, the standard controls drum and pulley geometry, rope guidance, and the influence of pulleys on rope load. This matters because failures in these parts can lead directly to loss of load or loss of control.
Stability calculations
Clause 5.4 requires stability checks to consider dead weight, live load, snow load, vertical forces, dynamic and secondary dynamic forces, wind load, spring reaction forces, and live load outside the tipping edge. Ground slope, elastic deflection, and flat tyres also have to be included where relevant. In practice, this means the machine is assessed in a realistic tipping situation, not only on level ground.
The stability calculation uses the worst load combinations and the machine is deemed stable only when the restoring moment exceeds the tipping moment by the required margin. Clause 5.4.5 defines the combinations for working, stabilizer-supported, and driving conditions. Clause 5.4.6 gives the stability criterion used for the pass/fail decision.
Verification by test
Clause 6 requires verification by type testing and recording of the results. Strength tests use test weights and simulated loads placed to match the calculated centers of gravity and load directions. Stability tests use the same principle and may include tipping tests, full braking, and the worst operational position.
The standard also states when verification tests are not required if the calculated safety factor is high enough, except for lifting devices, which always require verification tests. For the user, this means the manufacturer can rely on calculations for some cases, but lifting functions remain subject to test evidence.
Information for use
Clause 7 requires the instructions for use to follow EN 1915-1 and the relevant part of EN 12312. This is important because the calculations and tests only work if the operating limits, load conditions, and ground conditions are also clearly passed on to the user.
What terms does SIST EN 1915-2:2026 define?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 defines the terms it uses so that calculations and tests are read in the same way by all parties.
- GSE - complete aircraft ground support equipment in the context of this document.
- Dead weight - the mass of the part of the GSE being assessed for strength.
- Live load - the maximum mass, including persons, that the GSE or part of it is intended to carry.
- Static test load - a test load or load combination used to simulate operational loading.
- Wind load - the force acting on the GSE or part of it because of wind pressure.
- Tipping edge - the outermost ground contact points on the most heavily loaded side.
- Maximum working pressure - the highest pressure at which the system is intended to operate.
- Accidental load - a load from unforeseen or rare events, such as failure of a lifting device.
Who uses SIST EN 1915-2:2026?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is used by manufacturers of aircraft ground support equipment, especially when they design lifting, stabilizing, or load-bearing structures. Design engineers and stress analysts use it to choose calculation methods, load cases, and safety factors.
Testing laboratories and conformity assessment teams use it to plan type tests, arrange load application, and record evidence of strength and stability. Quality managers and buyers use it to check whether a product family is being designed against the right airport-specific safety requirements, especially when the GSE must also work with the relevant EN 12312 part.
What changed in SIST EN 1915-2:2026 from the previous edition?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 supersedes EN 1915-2:2001+A1:2009. Compared with that edition, the standard states these technical changes:
- the Introduction was updated
- the Scope was updated
- Clause 2, Normative references, was updated
- requirements for steel constructions changed to metal or metallic constructions
- the calculation methods changed
- the bases for stress factors changed
- fatigue strength factors were updated
- Clause 6.1 now states when inspections can be dispensed with
- Annex A was added
- Annex ZA was updated
- the Bibliography was updated
Which standards are used with SIST EN 1915-2:2026?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 relies on EN 1915-1:2023 for basic safety requirements, EN ISO 31915-3:2026 for vibration measurement methods and reduction on self-propelled GSE, and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009 for noise measurement methods and reduction. It also uses EN ISO 12100:2010 for risk assessment and risk reduction, EN ISO 4413:2010 for hydraulic safety, ISO 2408:2017 for steel wire ropes, and ISO 8625-1:2018 for pressure-related vocabulary.
The relevant EN 12312 part supplies the specific requirements for the particular category of GSE, such as passenger stairs, catering vehicles, boarding bridges, fuel equipment, jacks, or electrical ground power units. EN 1993-1-9:2025 is named as an alternative method for fatigue checking.
What does the SIST EN 1915-2:2026 document contain?
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 contains calculation methods, load definitions, and test procedures for strength and stability of aircraft ground support equipment. It includes a hazard list in Annex A, geometry examples for stability work in Annex B, and wind shape factors in the normative Annex C. The document also contains a set of load-combination tables, a drum and pulley figure, and test procedures for both strength and tipping verification. Annex ZA maps the standard to essential requirements of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230.
Relations
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
- Effective Date
- 17-Sep-2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is a standard published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Aircraft ground support equipment - General requirements - Part 2: Stability and strength requirements, calculations and test methods". This standard covers: This document specifies the conditions to be taken into consideration when calculating the strength and the stability of GSE. It also specifies general test methods. This part of EN 1915 is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 1915-1:2023, EN ISO 31915-3:2026 (for self-propelled GSE) and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009, and with the relevant part of EN 12312 to give the requirements for the types of GSE within the scope of EN 12312. When EN 12312 does not contain a relevant part for a GSE, EN 1915 (all parts) gives general requirements that may apply, although additional machine specific requirements, to be determined by the manufacturer, are likely to be required. NOTE The methods given in this document demonstrate one way of achieving an acceptable safety level. Methods that produce comparable results can be used. This document does not establish additional requirements for the following: a) operation elsewhere than in an airport environment; b) operation in severe conditions, e.g. ambient temperature below −20 °C or over 50 °C, tropical or saturated salty atmospheric environment; c) hazards caused by wind velocity in excess of the figures given in this document; d) earthquake, flood, landslide, lightning and more generally any natural catastrophe. This document is not applicable to GSE which are manufactured before the date of publication by CEN of this document.
This document specifies the conditions to be taken into consideration when calculating the strength and the stability of GSE. It also specifies general test methods. This part of EN 1915 is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 1915-1:2023, EN ISO 31915-3:2026 (for self-propelled GSE) and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009, and with the relevant part of EN 12312 to give the requirements for the types of GSE within the scope of EN 12312. When EN 12312 does not contain a relevant part for a GSE, EN 1915 (all parts) gives general requirements that may apply, although additional machine specific requirements, to be determined by the manufacturer, are likely to be required. NOTE The methods given in this document demonstrate one way of achieving an acceptable safety level. Methods that produce comparable results can be used. This document does not establish additional requirements for the following: a) operation elsewhere than in an airport environment; b) operation in severe conditions, e.g. ambient temperature below −20 °C or over 50 °C, tropical or saturated salty atmospheric environment; c) hazards caused by wind velocity in excess of the figures given in this document; d) earthquake, flood, landslide, lightning and more generally any natural catastrophe. This document is not applicable to GSE which are manufactured before the date of publication by CEN of this document.
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 49.100 - Ground service and maintenance equipment. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to SIST EN 12312-12:2017, SIST EN 12312-15:2006+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-7:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-16:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-8:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-11:2005, SIST EN 12312-5:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-14:2007+A1:2009, SIST EN 1915-1:2013, SIST EN 12312-12:2003+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-17:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-9:2014, SIST EN 12312-20:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-10:2005+A1:2009, SIST EN 12312-18:2005+A1:2009. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2006/42/EC, 2023/1230; Standardization Mandates: M/396, M/605. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.
SIST EN 1915-2:2026 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-november-2026
Podporna oprema na tleh za letalski promet - Splošne zahteve - 2. del: Zahteve za
stabilnost in vzdržljivost, izračuni in preskusni postopki
Aircraft ground support equipment - General requirements - Part 2: Stability and strength
requirements, calculations and test methods
Luftfahrt-Bodengeräte - Allgemeine Anforderungen - Teil 2: Standsicherheits- und
Festigkeitsanforderungen, Berechnungen und Prüfverfahren
Matériel au sol pour aéronefs - Exigences générales - Partie 2: Prescriptions de stabilité
et de résistance mécanique, calculs et méthodes d'essai
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 1915-2:2026
ICS:
49.100 Oprema za servis in Ground service and
vzdrževanje na tleh maintenance equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EN 1915-2
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
September 2026
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 49.100 Supersedes EN 1915-2:2001+A1:2009
English Version
Aircraft ground support equipment - General
requirements - Part 2: Stability and strength requirements,
calculations and test methods
Matériel au sol pour aéronefs - Exigences générales - Luftfahrt-Bodengeräte - Allgemeine Anforderungen -
Partie 2 : Exigences de stabilité et de résistance Teil 2: Standsicherheits- und
mécanique, calculs et méthodes d'essai Festigkeitsanforderungen, Berechnungen und
Prüfverfahren
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 5 July 2026.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 1915-2:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 4
Introduction . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 List of hazards . 10
5 Safety requirements and/or protective risk reduction measures . 11
5.1 General . 11
5.2 Requirements for the strength calculation of metal (or metallic) constructions . 11
5.2.1 General remarks . 11
5.2.2 Loads and load combinations . 12
5.2.3 Materials . 13
5.2.4 Factors for stress calculations . 14
5.2.5 Combined stresses . 14
5.2.6 Fatigue . 14
5.3 Requirements for the calculation of safety related machinery parts . 15
5.3.1 Chain lifting elements . 15
5.3.2 Cylinders, pipes and hoses used in lifting systems . 15
5.3.3 Wire rope lifting elements . 15
5.3.4 Winches . 16
5.3.5 Winching plants . 17
5.3.6 Stabilizers . 17
5.4 Stability calculations . 18
5.4.1 Loads and forces . 18
5.4.2 Ground slope . 18
5.4.3 Elastic deflection . 18
5.4.4 Flat tyres . 18
5.4.5 Load combinations . 19
5.4.6 Stability criteria . 19
6 Verification of safety requirements and/or measures . 20
6.1 General . 20
6.2 Verification of strength . 20
6.2.1 Test loads . 20
6.2.2 Test procedure . 21
6.2.3 Test results . 21
6.3 Verification of stability. 21
6.3.1 General . 21
6.3.2 Test loads . 21
6.3.3 Test procedure . 22
6.3.4 Test results . 22
7 Information for use . 22
Annex A (informative) List of significant hazards . 23
Annex B (informative) Examples for load geometry . 24
Annex C (normative) Wind shape factors . 30
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the essential
requirements of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 aimed to be covered. 32
Bibliography . 37
European foreword
This document (EN 1915-2:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 274 “Aircraft
ground support equipment”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by March 2027, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by March 2027.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 1915-2:2001+A1:2009.
This document includes the following significant technical changes with respect to EN 1915-
2:2001+A1:2009:
a) the Introduction was updated;
b) the Scope was updated;
c) Clause 2, Normative references, was updated;
d) requirements for steel constructions changed to metal (or metallic) constructions;
e) the methods of calculation changed;
f) factors for stress calculations have new bases;
g) fatigue strength factors were updated;
h) it has been determined when inspections can be dispensed with (see 6.1);
i) Annex A, List of significant hazards, was added;
j) Annex ZA was updated;
k) the Bibliography was updated.
This document has been prepared under a standardization request addressed to CEN by the European
Commission. The Standing Committee of the EFTA States subsequently approves these requests for its
Member States.
For the relationship with EU Legislation, see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this
document.
EN 1915, Aircraft ground support equipment ― General requirements, consists of the following parts:
— Part 1: Basic safety requirements;
— Part 2: Stability and strength requirements, calculations and test methods (the present document);
— Part 3: Vibration measurement methods and reduction;
— Part 4: Noise measurement methods and reduction.
EN 12312, Aircraft ground support equipment ― Specific requirements, consists of the following parts:
— Part 1: Passenger stairs;
— Part 2: Catering vehicles;
— Part 3: Conveyor belt vehicles;
— Part 4: Passenger boarding bridges;
— Part 5: Aircraft fuelling equipment;
— Part 6: Deicers and deicing/antiicing equipment;
— Part 7: Aircraft movement equipment;
— Part 8: Maintenance or service stairs and platforms;
— Part 9: Container/Pallet loaders;
— Part 10: Container/Pallet transfer transporters;
— Part 11: Container/Pallet dollies and loose load trailers;
— Part 12: Potable water service equipment;
— Part 13: Lavatory service equipment;
— Part 14: Disabled/incapacitated passenger boarding vehicles;
— Part 15: Baggage and equipment tractors;
— Part 16: Air start equipment;
— Part 17: Air conditioning equipment;
— Part 18: Nitrogen or Oxygen units;
— Part 19: Aircraft jacks, axle jacks and hydraulic tail stanchions;
— Part 20: Electrical ground power units.
Any feedback and questions on this document should be directed to the users’ national standards body.
A complete listing of these bodies can be found on the CEN website.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland,
Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North
Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and the United
Kingdom.
Introduction
The abbreviation GSE means a complete item of aircraft ground support equipment in the context of this
document.
When compiling this document, it was assumed that:
a) components without specific requirements are:
1) designed in accordance with good engineering practice and calculation codes;
2) of sound mechanical and electrical construction;
3) made of materials with adequate strength and of suitable quality;
4) made of materials free of defects;
b) components are kept in good repair and working order, so that the required characteristics remain
despite wear;
c) by design of the load bearing elements, a safe operation of the machine is ensured for loading ranges
from zero to 100 % of the rated possibilities and during tests;
d) a negotiation took place between the user and the manufacturer concerning particular conditions for
the use and places of use of the GSE;
e) the place of operation allows a safe use of GSE.
The extent to which hazards are covered is indicated in the scope of this document.
The minimum essential criteria are considered to be of primary importance in providing safe, economical
and usable GSE. Deviation from the recommended methods and conditions should occur only after careful
consideration, extensive testing and thorough in-service evaluation have shown alternative methods or
conditions to be satisfactory. Such deviations are outside the scope of this document and a manufacturer
should be able to demonstrate an equivalent level of protection.
This European Standard is a Type C standard as defined in EN ISO 12100:2010.
The machinery concerned and the extent to which hazards, hazardous situations or hazardous events are
covered are indicated in the Scope of this document.
When requirements of this type C standard are different from those which are stated in type A or type B
standards, the requirements of this type C standard take precedence over the requirements of the other
standards for machines that have been designed and built according to the requirements of this type C
standard.
1 Scope
This document specifies the conditions to be taken into consideration when calculating the strength and
the stability of GSE. It also specifies general test methods.
This part of EN 1915 is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 1915-1:2023, EN ISO 31915-3:2026
(for self-propelled GSE) and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009, and with the relevant part of EN 12312 to give
the requirements for the types of GSE within the scope of EN 12312.
When EN 12312 does not contain a relevant part for a GSE, EN 1915 (all parts) gives general
requirements that may apply, although additional machine specific requirements, to be determined by
the manufacturer, are likely to be required.
NOTE The methods given in this document demonstrate one way of achieving an acceptable safety level.
Methods that produce comparable results can be used.
This document does not establish additional requirements for the following:
a) operation elsewhere than in an airport environment;
b) operation in severe conditions, e.g. ambient temperature below −20 °C or over 50 °C, tropical or
saturated salty atmospheric environment;
c) hazards caused by wind velocity in excess of the figures given in this document;
d) earthquake, flood, landslide, lightning and more generally any natural catastrophe.
This document is not applicable to GSE which are manufactured before the date of publication by CEN of
this document.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 1915-1:2023, Aircraft ground support equipment — General requirements — Part 1: Basic safety
requirements
EN ISO 31915-3:2026, Aircraft ground support equipment — General requirements — Part 3: Vibration
measurement methods and reduction
EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — General requirements — Part 4: Noise
measurement methods and reduction
EN 1993-1-9:2025, Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures — Part 1-9: Fatigue
EN 12312-1:2024, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 1: Passenger stairs
EN 12312-2:2014, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 2: Catering vehicles
EN 12312-3:2017+A1:2020, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 3:
Conveyor belt vehicles
EN 12312-4:2024, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 4: Passenger
boarding bridges
EN 12312-5:2021+A1:2025, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 5:
Aircraft fuelling equipment
EN 12312-6:2017, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 6: Deicers and de-
icing/anti-icing equipment
EN 12312-7:2020, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 7: Aircraft
movement equipment
EN 12312-8:2018, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 8: Maintenance or
service stairs and platforms
EN 12312-9:2013, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 9: Container/Pallet
loaders
EN 12312-10:2005+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 10:
Container/Pallet transfer transporters
EN 12312-11:2005, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 11:
Container/Pallet dollies and loose load trailers
EN 12312-12:2017, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 12: Potable water
service equipment
EN 12312-13:2017, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 13: Lavatory
service equipment
EN 12312-14:2014, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 14:
Disabled/incapacitated passenger boarding vehicles
EN 12312-15:2020+A2:2025, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 15:
Baggage and equipment tractors
EN 12312-16:2005+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 16: Air
start equipment
EN 12312-17:2004+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 17: Air
conditioning equipment
EN 12312-18:2005+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 18:
Nitrogen or Oxygen units
EN 12312-19:2005+A1:2009, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 19:
Aircraft jacks, axle jacks and hydraulic tail stanchions
EN 12312-20:2026, Aircraft ground support equipment — Specific requirements — Part 20: Electrical
ground power units
EN ISO 4413:2010, Hydraulic fluid power — General rules and safety requirements for systems and their
components (ISO 4413:2010)
EN ISO 12100:2010, Safety of machinery — General principles for design — Risk assessment and risk
reduction (ISO 12100:2010)
ISO 2408:2017, Steel wire ropes — Requirements
ISO 8625-1:2018, Aerospace — Fluid systems — Vocabulary — Part 1: General terms and definitions
related to pressure
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN ISO 12100:2010, EN 1915-
1:2023 and ISO 8625-1:2018, and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp/
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
dead weight
mass of that part of the GSE, for which the strength is to be calculated
3.2
live load
maximum mass (including persons) a GSE or a part of it is intended to carry
3.3
local loads
loads derived from the live load for the calculation of the strength of particular parts of the GSE
3.4
snow load
maximum mass of snow or ice the GSE is intended to carry
3.5
static test load
test load or combination of tests, used to simulate operational loading
3.6
dynamic forces
forces resulting from acceleration of a mass
EXAMPLE Acceleration forces, retardation forces, centrifugal forces.
3.7
secondary dynamic forces
forces caused by the movement of persons
Note 1 to entry: These forces act horizontally at the centre of gravity of the body of a person. The centre of gravity
of persons is assumed to be 1,1 m above the standing area.
3.8
retardation forces
forces on particular parts of GSE caused by the maximum deceleration of the GSE
Note 1 to entry: These forces act at the centre of gravity of the particular part in the direction of motion.
3.9
spring reaction force
force in the suspension under the condition of loading
3.10
wind load
force acting on a GSE or part of it due to wind pressure
Note 1 to entry: This force acts horizontally at the geometric centre of the body of the GSE.
3.11
tipping edge
those part(s) of the GSE in contact with the ground, located farthest out on the most heavily loaded side
3.12
tipping moment
total of the products of those forces which tend to tip the GSE, and their distance normal to the tipping
edge
3.13
burst pressure, actual
pressure at which a component bursts or shows excessive leakage due to structural failure
[SOURCE: ISO 8625-1:2018, 3.7]
3.14
maximum working pressure
highest pressure at which the system is to operate
3.15
accidental load
that load resulting from unforeseen or rare events
Note 1 to entry: Those events can be e.g. failure of one lifting device and impacts.
3.16
resonance
phenomenon where a system vibrates with maximum amplitude at specific frequencies, known as natural
frequencies
Note 1 to entry: Resonance can only be considered during the intended use of the GSE, e.g. passengers at
passenger boarding bridges.
4 List of hazards
This list of risks and hazards (given in Table A.1) is based on EN ISO 12100:2010 and contains the hazards
and hazardous situations, as far as they are dealt with in this document, identified by risk assessment as
significant for this type of machinery and which require action to eliminate or reduce risks. See also the
complementary list of hazards in the other parts of EN 1915 and in the different parts of EN 12312.
5 Safety requirements and/or protective risk reduction measures
5.1 General
GSE shall comply with the safety requirements and/or protective measures of this clause, with the
requirements of EN 1915-1:2023, EN ISO 31915-3:2026 and EN 1915-4:2004+A1:2009 as relevant, as
well as with the requirements of the relevant part of EN 12312. In addition, the machine shall be designed
according to the principles of EN ISO 12100:2010 for relevant but not significant hazards, which are not
dealt with by this document.
Where a standard automotive or truck chassis is used, the manufacturer of the GSE should pay attention
to and appropriate gross mass rating for the intended use.
5.2 Requirements for the strength calculation of metal (or metallic) constructions
5.2.1 General remarks
The method of calculation shall take into account the complexity of each individual type of GSE. The
pertinence of the method of calculation shall be stated in the technical file.
Calculation models shall be performed either by
a) finite element analysis;
b) truss structure analysis;
c) hand calculations
or combinations of these.
Design verification methods shall be performed either by
d) recognized engineering design methods and engineering codes;
e) actual stress measurements
or combinations of these.
NOTE Information about load geometry is given in Annex B, Table B.1 and Figures B.1 to B.5.
The source of the design methods and engineering codes, if generally accessible, shall be stated in the
case of any unusual formulae or calculation methods. Otherwise, only formulae or calculation methods
which can be verified shall be used.
The general stress analysis shall be carried out to ensure safe levels of stress in relation to the yield stress
of the material used.
Safe levels of stress related to the loading conditions shall be demonstrated for all supporting structures.
The principal dimensions, cross sections, materials and fastening means shall be stated.
The calculation shall be performed considering second order theory or large displacements analysis. Test
results, if available, shall be used to modify calculation parameters. The analysis of the load case
combinations intended shall be carried out to ensure that the severest individual load ratings can be
identified.
The global and local stability (buckling) of the GSE shall be proven according to design verification
methods given in 5.2.1. Eigenvalue buckling analysis is permitted.
Consideration shall be given to high dynamic forces which can be caused by the operation of a safety
device for the prevention of unintentional movements if there is an escape of fluid in a piping system or
a rope, chain, nut or gear fails.
The design of mechanical restraint devices shall take into account all loads and forces occurring during
blocking.
Where a system has two or more lifting elements in parallel, design shall ensure the loads resulting from
the failure of one element shall not have effects jeopardising safety. These loads shall be considered in
structural design to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure under exceptional circumstances. The
structure shall be stable but plastic deformations and / or local instabilities are allowed. The loading
condition for this accidental case shall be the combination of all vertical loads: 1,0 × dead weight +
1,1 × (live load + snow load). Resonance effects shall be avoided for live load.
Strength calculations can be performed using recognized methods such as Eurocode 3 for steel structures
(EN 1993-1-3:2024), the FKM-Guidelines, Computational strength verification of machine components ,
EN 13001-2:2021 or other recognized calculation methods.
5.2.2 Loads and load combinations
5.2.2.1 The following loads or worse combinations thereof shall be taken into account:
a) dead weight;
b) live load;
c) local loads;
d) snow load;
e) dynamic forces;
f) resonance;
g) wind load.
NOTE Load combinations are given in 5.4.5.
5.2.2.2 Loads shall be used in the calculation of the strength of the elements concerned at the most
unfavourable positions, values and directions, e.g. Table 3.
5.2.2.3 The live load shall be stated, and shall be not less than 3200 N/m . Where the intended use
of the GSE is to carry persons, the live load shall be calculated on the basis of four persons per m , each
person at 80 kg.
5.2.2.4 Dynamic forces effective at the same time shall be measured under intended use conditions
or be calculated.
For GSE not designed to be driven during operation, vertical dynamic forces shall be considered to be at
least 10 % of the component mass and live load, subject to verification by a competent authority.
NOTE See also the EN 12312 series.
Available from: VDMA Services GmbH, Lyoner Straße 18, D-60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
5.2.2.5 For simplification of the calculation, secondary dynamic forces are introduced into the
calculation as static forces by the formula:
F = 200 N x Σ (1/i)
s
i.e. F = 200 N (1/1+1/2+1/3+.+1/i)
s
where:
i is the number of persons on the entire GSE.
5.2.2.6 The snow load shall be specified in the manufacturer instruction manual.
NOTE The snow load is depending on the geographical area of use of the GSE and can be agreed between
manufacturer and user (see introduction – negotiation).
5.2.2.7 The wind force is generally calculated by the formula:
W = c q A
where:
c is the shape factor;
A is the surface area in square metres;
q is the dynamic wind pressure in Pascals.
The dynamic wind pressure is calculated by the formula:
ρv
q =
where:
v is the wind velocity, in metres per second;
ρ is the density of air in kilograms per cubic metre.
An air density at the lowest operating temperature shall always be used. As a reference, at an operating
temperature of +15 °C, an air density of 1,225 kg per cubic metre can be used.
The maximum wind velocity shall be specified in the manufacturer instruction manual. A minimum
constant wind velocity of 20,58 m/s (40 kn) shall be considered.
NOTE The operating conditions to resist higher wind gust velocities can be agreed between manufacturer and
user (see introduction – negotiation).
For simplification, the wind velocity shall be assumed to be constant over the height of the GSE.
The shape factor c is given in Annex C, Table C.1 and Figures C.1 to C.3.
5.2.3 Materials
Type, grade, chemical composition, weldability and mechanical characteristics (e.g. yield strength,
modulus of elasticity, shear modulus) of materials used shall be stated in the technical file.
5.2.4 Factors for stress calculations
The stress factors S as specified in Table 1 are applicable for constructional metal up to a yield of
355 N/mm .
Only for accidental load, local plastic analysis is allowed.
Table 1 — Stress factors S
a a
Structural elements
Butt welds Fillet welds
Equivalent stress σ 1,3 1,7 (1,4) 2,1 (1,7)
V
Tensile stress σ
Z
Compressive stress σ 1,4 1,7 (1,4) 1,8 (1,5)
D
Shear stress τ 1,7 2,1 (1,7) 2,1 (1,7)
a
The stress factors between brackets can be used for welding quality B according to EN ISO 5817:2023 and
welds in accordance with EN ISO 3834-1:2021, EN ISO 3834-2:2021, EN ISO 3834-3:2021 and EN ISO 3834-
4:2021.
The established stress resulting from the multiplication of the calculated stress by the stress factor S shall
not exceed the yield stress of the respective material.
5.2.5 Combined stresses
Where situations of combined plane stresses exist, the equivalent stress shall be verified, paying attention
to the plus or minus signs, as follows:
2 2 2
σ σσσ+ − σ + 3τ
v x y x y
5.2.6 Fatigue
A fatigue calculation shall be carr
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