Aircraft at Munich Airport in Germany are now being towed using electric pushback tugs equipped with the latest 700V lithium-ion battery technology.
The resource-saving handling equipment can effortlessly tow passenger aircraft up to a take-off weight of 352 tonnes – which includes wide-bodied aircraft.
Named after the mythical bird, the “PHOENIX” E can achieve speeds of up to 32km per hour with consistently high tractive power. And through short intermediate charging, the completely emission-free all-electric pushback tug allows reliable round-the-clock operations.
If the loading capacity is ever insufficient, “PHOENIX” E is also equipped with a range extender that enables operation with diesel in exceptional cases. Compared to conventional diesel tractors, the maintenance effort is significantly lower.
With the deployment of the all-electric aircraft pushback tug, EFM – a joint subsidiary of Munich Airport and Lufthansa – is contributing to the German gateway’s climate protection goals, which are for the airport to be operated in a completely carbon-neutral manner by 2030 at the latest.
To achieve this goal, Munich Airport is implementing a wealth of technological innovations in all areas and has massively expanded not only the proportion of electric vehicles in its fleet, but also the charging infrastructure
