TaxiBot to allow engine-off taxiing
The TaxiBot is a semi-robotic towing vehicle designed to move aircraft from the boarding gate (parking area) to a designated area near the runway threshold without using engine power. This innovative technology is expected to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, fuel consumption, and taxiway congestion, contributing to greener airport operations. The evaluation of this innovative solution's results is now underway, marking a significant step forward in sustainable aviation practices.
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Objectives
The TaxiBot project aims to revolutionize ground operations at airports by enabling engine-off taxiing of aircraft.This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with global sustainability goals.
The objectives are:
Environmental Benefits: The main scope of the TaxiBot project is to significantly reduce the environmental impact of airport ground operations. By enabling aircrafts to taxi without using their main engines, the TaxiBot is expected to drastically reduce emissions of CO2 and Nox , which are major contributors to air pollution and climate change. In addition, the use of a TaxiBot should reduce noise pollution, creating a quieter environment for airport employees and neighbouring communities.
Economic Benefits: The TaxiBot could also bring economic benefits by reducing engine operating time and saving fuel. While reducing the need for engine power during taxiing, the TaxiBot should reduce wear and tear on aircraft engines, thereby cutting maintenance costs and extending engine life.
Progress
The experimentation phase, conducted from November 2023 to February 2024, involved a single TaxiBot and the modification of four Airbus A320 aircraft to meet the experiment's requirements. The TaxiBot was used exclusively for departure operations, successfully completing a total of 38 missions. The final deliverable, which will present a comprehensive analysis of the results, is anticipated by the end of Q4 2024.
Key figures
The TaxiBot trial operated a few dozen commercial flights with Air France in the first quarter of 2024, using Airbus A320 aircraft.
The TaxiBot measures 9m in length, 4.3m in width, 2.2m in height, and weighs 26 tonnes.
It is a hybrid diesel vehicle, with a maximum speed of 23 knots.