In aviation, pushback is an airport procedure during which an aircraft is pushed backwards away from its parking position, usually at an airport gate by external power. Pushbacks are carried out by special, low-profile vehicles called pushback tractors or tugs.
How does an airplane tug work?
These units use a huge hydraulic cradle between the forward wheels which are usually mounted on a booms on each side of the vehicle. The driver moves into position and the cradle attaches to the tires. The cradle then lifts hydraulically, placing all of the forward weight of the airplane onto the tug.8 Feb 2018
What is a super tug?
SuperTugs are used for a couple of purposes. They push the biggest planes, like the 747 or A380 away from the gate. Or they can be used to tow planes for longer distances. For example, at some of the big international airports, airlines share gates.8 Nov 2014
How much does an aircraft tug cost?
A used pushback tug may cost $50,000 in initial investment up front. But this vehicle requires minimum of three personnel for each tow.22 Aug 2017
Why do planes use tugs?
A: Using ground tugs to move airplanes on the ground does save fuel. It also allows for precise parking as the tug driver can see the area around the airplane better than the pilot can from the flight deck.3 Apr 2016
What is tow tug in aviation?
Movement of large aircraft about the airport, flight line, and hangar is usually accomplished by towing with a tow tractor (sometimes called a “tug”). Towing aircraft can be a hazardous operation, causing damage to the aircraft and injury to personnel, if done recklessly or carelessly.
How do you make an airplane tug?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZOag1s8sFI
How much does a tug cost?
Tugboat companies deal in large sums: the bill to dock a tanker can run from $15,000 to more than $50,000 depending on a number of variables. Captains may earn six-figure salaries, and a new tugboat can cost more than $10 million.17 Dec 2011
How much do best tugs cost?
The base price is $5800. It is a two-wheel drive unit, with differential, and picks the nose or tailwheel off of the ground by attaching a fork designed for the type of airplane to the gear and then winching the wheel onto the tug.31 Jul 2018
How much does an electric tug cost?
In this same scenario, an electric airplane tug (consuming somewhere between 27.75 and 33.5 kilowatts per day) costs between $5.39 and $5.79 per day to operate. Note that the cost of the battery has been factored into these figures.
Can you buy an airport tug?
We also have smaller baggage tractors that can be used for moving small aircraft. With over 150 aircraft tugs/ pushback tugs and baggage tugs for sale, we are sure to have the right tug to meet your needs.
How much horsepower does a tug have?
Tugboat diesel engines typically produce 500 to 2,500 kW (~ 680 to 3,400 hp), but larger boats (used in deep waters) can have power ratings up to 20,000 kW (~ 27,200 hp).