In line with Cologne Bonn’s plans to expand its ground fleet the airport is replacing two of its diesel-powered models with two latest-generation electric aircraft tractors. The new models can tow and push back very large aircraft up to a Boeing 777.
Because aircraft are unable to reverse under their own power, the tugs (or pushers) are needed to relocate aircraft from their parking position to a taxiway. Goldhofer’s electric aircraft tractors are quieter and more powerful than previous electric models, according to Thilo Schmid, COE of Cologne Bonn Airport. They also feature a higher battery capacity with an additional fast charging option meaning that more pushbacks can be carried out between the individual charging processes than was previously possible.
“These new devices are very effective in strengthening our climate protection activities,” said Thilo Schmid, CEO of Cologne Bonn Airport. “By purchasing high-performance electric aircraft tractors, our airport is further reducing CO2.”
By 2035, the airport plans to have all the vehicles and equipment on its apron equipped with CO2-enutral drives.
The electrification of the mobile ground power supply has also already started at the German hub. At the beginning of October, the first of a total of ten all-electric ground power generators arrived, replacing conventional diesel-powered ones. Fifteen additional devices will be rolled out over the course of the next year.
Image source: Cologne Bonn Airport
