OVERVIEW
TaxiBot® enables pushback operations and taxiing with engines off, allowing immediate taxiing after pushback and eliminating bottlenecks in the gate area. Pilots remain fully in control at all times using the airplane tiller and brake pedals, making the process fully transparent as in regular taxiing. TaxiBot® taxis at 23 knots, the same speed as current airplane taxiing, while using its own power and requiring no utilization of aircraft resources.
HIGHLIGHTS
- First TaxiBot® vehicle from serial production has been delivered to Lufthansa
- Operational and certification tests have begun in Frankfurt airport with Lufthansa
Values & Benefits
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ROI 1–2 years for Airlines
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Major savings in fuel consumption
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Significant reduction of greenhouse gases and noise level at airports
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Increase airport efficiency and throughput
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FOD prevention
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No modification in airplane systems
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No need for APU replacement
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No added weight to the airplane and no reduction in cargo space
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User-friendly speed and steering control
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Only short e-training (CBT) required for pilots
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Protection of the Nose Landing Gear (NLG) from exceeding maximum allowed fatigue load at all times, with no change in NLG life service
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Increased traction and improved safety on slippery or icy surfaces
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Major safety improvement in pushback and maintenance towing
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Pilot fully in control during taxiing using airplane tiller and pedal brakes, as in current operations
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Taxiing with engines stopped, engines start shortly before takeoff
