Electric aircraft tugs are crucial to an aircraft pushback, or a procedure wherein an aircraft is manually pushed backward from the gate in preparation for takeoff. While aircraft are certainly strong enough to move themselves backward, the thrust from the engines and turbines can be dangerous to those around, do damage to nearby terminals, buildings, or vehicles, and may blow around dust and small debris that can strike things, or get stuck in the engine. Therefore, aircraft tugs are among the most important pieces of equipment needed by the ground crew.

Typically, tugs connect to the aircraft via the front landing gear, and have the capabilities to move up or down, depending on the height of the aircraft’s nose. This ensures a snug fit, and a strong hold on the aircraft. Because each aircraft has a different tow fitting, a towbar is necessary for adaptation between the machine’s standard tow in, and the fit of the aircraft.

Aviation GSE is a leader in ground support and aviation ground crew supplies. Our inventory of tugs includes aircraft tugs, baggage tugs (which tow baggage carts to/from the aircraft and terminal), electric tugs, and high-speed tugs that are all crucial pieces of the ground support equipment that we provide. Shop through our offerings, and contact us with any inquiries.