aircraft tow truck

Types of aircraft tow trucks

An aircraft tow truck, also known as a tarmac vehicle, is designed to tow and push back aircraft. It assists in the movement of the aircraft on the ground so that it can be positioned at the gate for boarding or at the runway for take-off. Below are the different types of aircraft tow trucks:

• Aircraft pushback tractor

  Aircraft pushback tractors are used primarily for pushing airplanes back from the terminal gate. This is an important operation, as it allows the aircraft to taxi on the runway without obstructing the terminal operations. There are two main types of pushback tractors: integrated and non-integrated tractors. Integrated tractors have the towing device installed within the aircraft. In contrast, non-integrated tractors have the towing device located outside of the tractor.

• Electric aircraft tow tractor

  Electric aircraft tow tractors are the aircraft towing vehicles that are powered by an electric motor. The propulsion system of these tractors converts the electric power into motion. Because of their electric motors, these tractors have many advantages. They produce no emissions, which is ideal for airport operations that focus on sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. They also have lower noise levels compared to conventional aircraft tow trucks, thus reducing noise pollution.

• Tractor units

  Tractor units are the towing vehicles that are used to transport aircraft on the ground. They are responsible for towing and pushing aircraft. These tractors are designed with strong and reliable towing equipment to ensure safe and efficient aircraft movement.

• Ground support equipment (GSE) towing vehicles

  Ground support equipment towing vehicles are designed to tow various types of ground support equipment. This includes baggage carts, fuel trucks, and catering trucks, which are essential for airport operations. By towing this ground support equipment, aircraft tow trucks enhance the efficiency and coordination of airport ground operations.

• Heavy aircraft towing

  Heavy aircraft towing services are offered to aircraft that are too heavy to be towed by conventional aircraft towing vehicles. In these situations, specialized towing equipment and powerful towing vehicles are deployed to ensure safe and efficient aircraft movement. The heavy aircraft towing services are coordinated with the airport operations to minimize disruptions and ensure the aircraft's timely movement.

Specifications and Maintenance of Aircraft Tow Trucks

The specifications of aircraft tow trucks vary according to the type of aircraft they are designed to move and the specific needs of the airport or airline. Here are some general specifications that might be found in aircraft tow trucks:

• Load Capacity:

  This is the maximum weight that the tow truck can safely tow. Different aircraft have different weights, so the towing capacity needs to be higher than the aircraft's weight to ensure safe towing. For instance, a tow truck for smaller regional aircraft would have a lower towing capacity than one used for large commercial jets.

• Engine Power:

  The engine power is crucial for determining the towing capacity and the truck's ability to navigate the airport's tarmac. More powerful trucks can tow larger aircraft and handle inclines or uneven surfaces better.

• Size and Maneuverability:

  Aircraft tow trucks need to be compact and highly maneuverable to navigate the airport's runways and taxiways. Considerations such as the truck's length, width, turning radius, and visibility from the driver's seat are vital.

• Braking System:

  The towing vehicle's brakes need to be powerful and reliable since it must tow and stop the aircraft. The brakes should work efficiently under various weather conditions (rain, snow, etc.) and be regularly maintained to ensure safety.

• Ground Clearance:

  The aircraft tow truck should have sufficient ground clearance to prevent damage when towing or maneuvering near the aircraft. The required ground clearance depends on the design of the tow truck and the specific aircraft's dimensions.

Maintaining an aircraft towing truck is essential to ensure safety and efficiency in towing operations. Here are some general guidelines for maintaining aircraft tow trucks:

• Regular Inspection:

  Users should conduct regular inspections to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Inspect the towing equipment, such as straps, hooks, and winches, for signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed.

• Engine Maintenance:

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the engine's routine maintenance, including changing the oil and filter, checking the cooling system, and inspecting the ignition and fuel systems. Use only the recommended engine oil and fuel for the specific model of the aircraft tow truck.

• Tire Maintenance:

  Check the tire pressure regularly and ensure it adheres to the manufacturer's recommended specifications. Inspect the tires for signs of wear, such as uneven wear patterns, cracks, or bulges, and replace them as needed. Rotate the tires regularly to ensure even wear and extend their life.

• Brake Maintenance:

  Regularly inspect the brakes, including the brake pads, rotors, and calipers, and replace them as needed. Ensure the brake fluid levels are within the manufacturer's recommended range and change the brake fluid according to the manufacturer's schedule. Check the brakes for proper alignment and adjustment to ensure effective braking performance.

• Electrical System Maintenance:

  Regularly inspect the electrical system, including the battery, alternator, and wiring, for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged components as needed. Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion, and ensure the battery is securely mounted to the towing vehicle.

• Regular Lubrication:

  Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for regularly lubricating moving parts of the aircraft towing truck, such as joints, hinges, and bearings. Use only the recommended lubricants for the specific model of the towing vehicle, and ensure that the lubricants are applied correctly to avoid over- or under-lubricating.

How to choose an aircraft tow truck

• Capacity

  The towing capacity of the aircraft truck must be equal to or greater than the weight of the aircraft that will be towed. This guarantees that the truck can pull the aircraft safely and effectively without putting undue strain on its systems.

• Runway and taxiway restrictions

  Consider the dimensions of the aircraft towing vehicle, such as its length, width, and height, as well as its turning radius. It is important to ensure that the truck can maneuver on the airport's runways and taxiways, including any narrow or congested areas.

• Powertrain and towing capacity

  Aircraft towing vehicles are equipped with various powertrains, including diesel or electric engines. Each type of powertrain has distinct advantages and disadvantages, such as its power and efficiency. The towing capacity of the aircraft truck must be equal to or greater than the weight of the aircraft that will be towed. This guarantees that the truck can pull the aircraft safely and effectively without putting undue strain on its systems.

• Maneuverability

  Consider the aircraft towing vehicle's turning radius, visibility, and any assistance systems (e.g., parking sensors, cameras). These characteristics influence the ability to maneuver in tight spaces and ensure safe and precise towing operations.

• Ground clearance

  The aircraft towing vehicle's ground clearance must be adequate for the airport's pavement conditions (e.g., runway and taxiway). Sufficient ground clearance reduces the risk of damage to the vehicle and the airport's infrastructure.

• Powertrain and towing capacity

  Aircraft towing vehicles are equipped with various powertrains, including diesel or electric engines. Each type of powertrain has distinct advantages and disadvantages, such as its power and efficiency. The towing capacity of the aircraft truck must be equal to or greater than the weight of the aircraft that will be towed. This guarantees that the truck can pull the aircraft safely and effectively without putting undue strain on its systems.

• Safety features

  Safety features are important elements to consider when selecting an aircraft towing vehicle. These include braking systems (e.g., ABS, EBD), stability control systems, and safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, first aid kits). Security features protect the crew and the aircraft during towing operations.

• Maintenance and support

  Consider the ease of maintenance and availability of technical support for the aircraft towing vehicle. Select a vehicle with reliable and durable components to minimize downtime and maintenance costs. Also, consider the availability of warranty and technical support services to ensure timely assistance when needed.

• Environmental conditions

  Consider the environmental conditions, such as temperature, altitude, and weather, where the aircraft towing vehicle will operate. Different vehicles are designed for specific environmental conditions and must be selected to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

How to DIY and replace an aircraft tow truck

Aircraft towing trucks are not easy to repair. Even though there are basic faults that can be repaired by anyone with basic mechanical knowledge, it is advisable that users consult the user manual to understand the aircraft tow truck better.

Below are some of the basic faults and how to repair them:

• Trouble starting

  Check the battery and connections to see if it has charge. Also, check if there is a loose connection.

• Battery replacement

  Refer to the user manual to know where the battery is located. Turn off the Tow truck and remove the old Tow aircraft truck battery using the appropriate tools. Place a new battery into the Tow truck, ensuring it fits into the compartment. Connect the Tow truck batteries to the Tow truck's electrical system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect the new battery properly.

• Tire replacement

  Check the User manual and see the steps to follow when replacing a tire. Loosen the lug nuts and raise the aircraft towing truck with a jack. Remove the lug nuts and take out the old aircraft towing truck. Place the new aircraft towing truck wheel and tighten the lug nuts.

• Brake pad replacement

  Check the User manual to know where the brake pads are located. Loosen the lug nuts and raise the aircraft towing truck with a jack. Remove the tire to access the brake pads. Remove the old brake pads and place the new aircraft towing truck.

For any repairs that require opening the aircraft towing truck, such as engine oil and filter change, brake fluid change, and others, consult the manufacturer's manual guide to know how to open and close the parts effectively.

For major repairs, contact a professional mechanic to help fix the problem. This is to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Q&A

Q1: What is an aircraft tow truck?

A1: An aircraft towing truck is a vehicle designed to help move and push aircraft on the ground. These trucks are crucial for airport operations, enabling efficient aircraft maneuvering in taxiways and runways.

Q2: Why are aircraft tow trucks important?

A2: Aircraft tow trucks are important because they facilitate the movement of aircraft in ground operations without damaging the aircraft. This ensures that operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Q3: What are the different types of aircraft tow trucks?

A3: There are different types of aircraft towing trucks, such as the conventional towing truck, the nose gear steering towbar, and the electric towbar integrated into the aircraft.

Q4: Can aircraft tow trucks be customized for specific aircraft types?

A4: Yes, aircraft tow trucks can be customized according to different aircraft types. This includes modifying the towing mechanism and adjusting the power and size requirements.