Aircraft Tugs

Aircraft tugs and towing tractors

Aircraft tugs move aircraft on the ground without running the engines: in and out of hangars, between stands and to maintenance bays. The range runs from small battery-powered and remote-controlled tugs for light aircraft in private hangars, through towbarless tractors that cradle the nose wheel, to heavy towbar tractors used by airlines and ground handlers for pushback. Customers include FBOs, hangar owners, maintenance organisations, airlines, airports and private owners.

When choosing a tug, check the maximum aircraft weight it is rated for, compatibility with your aircraft's nose gear and any adapters needed, the airframe manufacturer's towing limits, and whether electric, diesel or hybrid power suits your shift pattern and indoor use. Used and refurbished units are a common way to cut cost, so ask about service history, spare parts supply and warranty terms.

Companies here are based across the United States, Belgium, Italy, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain, Thailand and China, among others.

• AC Air Technology, Chino, California maker of remote-control tracked aircraft tugs
• Aero-Pac, Belgian manufacturer and distributor of aircraft and helicopter tugs and towbars
• ATA Tow Tractors, Modena manufacturer of airport and industrial tow tractors, including electric models
• Kalmar Motor, Swedish maker of specialised tractors for airport use
• LEKTRO, electric tugs from Oshkosh AeroTech
• Mototok, German maker of battery-powered, remote-controlled towbarless aircraft tugs
• HARLAN GLOBAL, manufacturer of ground support tractors

Tugs are usually bought alongside other kit by ground handling companies and aircraft maintenance providers, and some suppliers also appear under aviation equipment rental. See our aircraft tug guide for airports and FBOs and the article on electric aircraft tugs.