Ryanair Initial Practice Exam

What does GPU stand for in aviation?

1. Ground Power Unit

2. General Power Unit

3. Ground Procedure Unit

4. Ground Performance Unit

The correct answer is: Ground Power Unit

In aviation, GPU stands for Ground Power Unit. This piece of equipment is essential for providing electrical power to an aircraft while it is on the ground but not running its engines. The Ground Power Unit supplies the necessary energy to start the aircraft's engines, operate onboard systems, and maintain comfort for passengers and crew before departure. The importance of a Ground Power Unit lies in its ability to support ground operations without the need to use the aircraft's own power sources, such as its engines or auxiliary power unit (APU). This allows airlines to conserve fuel, reduce emissions, and ensure that the aircraft's onboard systems function correctly while on the ground. The other options, while they may seem plausible at first glance, do not accurately describe the function or terminology used in aviation. General Power Unit, Ground Procedure Unit, and Ground Performance Unit do not pertain to the established term GPU used within the aviation industry. Therefore, understanding that GPU specifically refers to Ground Power Unit clarifies its critical role in the operations of an aircraft while on the ground.