8 Benefits of Electric Aircraft Tug Vehicles
Resources & Technical ArticlesLet's talk about electric aircraft tugs today. While traditional diesel-powered tugs will always have their place at airports, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities and ground handling companies, more and more operations are seeing the advantages and benefits electric airplane tugs can provide. This relatively new technology improves the functionality of diesel-powered tugs and can give ground support crews the capability to improve day-to-day operations at their facilities.
Making the switch from diesel to electric ground support equipment (GSE) may not be the best option for every operation. But if you've considered updating your GSE fleet, understanding the benefits of electric aircraft tugs might give you more confidence in your decision. This article will highlight some major benefits of electric aircraft tug vehicles to consider when determining the future of your ground support operations.
1. Reduced Fuel Costs
One of the most notable electric GSE benefits any operation that makes the switch will experience is an overall reduction in fuel costs. Electrical ground support equipment is powered by efficient battery technology rather than costly diesel gas, giving operations a hard-to-ignore financial incentive to make the switch.
While on the flightline, it's common for aircraft tugs to need to start and stop multiple times per shift frequently. They also tend to sit idle for long periods and are often only required for short-term usage. Gas-powered tugs burn a lot of fuel under these conditions, leading to frequent daily refills and more money spent on fuel. Electric tow tugs cut gas out of the equation, saving operations thousands per month. And, as battery technology continues to evolve, electrical ground support equipment will only become more efficient.
2. Minimized Maintenance Costs
All GSE requires some form of preventive and regular maintenance. However, an electric airplane tug will require a lot less, again providing a benefit that will help improve an operation's bottom line. Most of the regular maintenance for diesel tugs (oil changes, air filter changes, transmission-related repairs, etc.) is unnecessary with battery-powered electric tow tugs.
It's important to note that it can be expensive to repair a damaged electric airplane tug upfront. However, the time and money an operation can save with a fleet of electric ground support equipment will outweigh that upfront cost over the long term.
3. Improved Maneuverability
A common issue found with conventional diesel tugs is maneuverability when in tight areas. The need for a towbar attachment can hinder an operator's turning radius exponentially and decrease their overall range of motion. Towbarless electric aircraft tugs solve this issue. With a much smaller turning radius, towbarless electric tow tugs can efficiently perform 90-degree turns, optimizing operator maneuvering efficiency.
Note: Not every electric airplane tug is towbarless. Operations can decide between electric aircraft tugs with and without towbars based on their unique needs.
4. Enhanced Sustainability Efforts
Environmental electric GSE benefits are probably among the most noteworthy on this list. Unlike gas and diesel-powered equipment, electrical ground support equipment is entirely emission-free.
The aviation industry is responsible for 2.5 percent of the world's C02 emissions – ground support equipment's role in this should not be underestimated. By switching to electric aircraft tugs and other GSE, operations can make a conscious effort to become more environmentally friendly and sustainable. This is especially beneficial for employees and surrounding communities, as local air pollution is often a cited nuisance and health hazard. Additionally, electric ground support equipment can be used safely inside warehouses and hangars because it doesn't produce toxic gases.
5. Increased Employee Satisfaction
Producing zero carbon emissions does more for an operation than help the environment. Using electric ground support equipment can also help ground crews by providing a healthier working environment and increasing employee happiness. With the elimination of toxic exhaust fumes, ground crews will no longer be forced to breathe in pollutants released by equipment. Flightlines and hangars are stressful enough – GSE shouldn't add to the overall discomfort.
6. Decreased Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is one of the biggest hazards to human health. Along with aircraft, combustion engines used to power non-electric ground support equipment contribute to much of the noise pollution at airports. However, the motor found in electric airplane tugs and GSE is silent.
Decreased noise pollution from electrical ground support equipment benefits both local wildlife and surrounding communities. Moreover, using silent electric aircraft tugs allows ground crews to communicate easier, while reducing the risk of accidental injuries. Additionally, using electric ground support equipment helps reduce the possibility that ground crews will sustain hearing damage – one of the most common workplace injuries for airport workers.
7. Improved Ease of Use
An essential but often overlooked electric GSE benefit is its simplicity when compared to traditional equipment. Electric aircraft tug vehicles require far less training and fewer workers to operate. With improved visibility and maneuverability, an electric airplane tug eliminates the need for additional tow supervisors on the job.
8. Sustained Torque and Towing Capabilities
Because electrical ground support equipment is silent, operations may not be convinced it's as powerful as their louder counterparts. However, while the horsepower of electric aircraft tugs may be a bit lower, the torque is what really matters. An electric airplane tug can immediately reach 100 percent of its torque output, allowing it to tow extremely heavy loads more effectively.
Make the Switch to Electric Aircraft Tugs With Tronair
If you're considering modernizing your fleet with electric ground support equipment, let Tronair provide you with the best in the industry. Our selection of electric aircraft tugs are among the most reliable and functional in the world and are backed by factory-direct service and support. Experience all these electric GSE benefits and more with electric airplane tugs and ground support equipment from Tronair. If you have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team of GSE professionals is always happy to help.
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