newstodate.aero
AUG 03, 2005 (newstodate): Boeing, in cooperation with Chorus Motors, is currently testing a new technology to move aircraft on the ground at airports.
Successful tests in June of an onboard electric motor attached to the nose wheel of an Air Canada Boeing 767 have shown that it may be a viable way of powering aircraft to move in and around gates, largely eliminating the use of push-back tractors and jet engines, as well as reducing emissions.
Air Canada pilots performed ground maneuvers on slopes and terrains typical of those at airports around the world, including driving in reverse from a gate and taxiing forward to a runway.
Tests also were performed at ramp temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit and at loads of up to 94 percent of the maximum takeoff weight for the aircraft.
Successful tests in June of an onboard electric motor attached to the nose wheel of an Air Canada Boeing 767 have shown that it may be a viable way of powering aircraft to move in and around gates, largely eliminating the use of push-back tractors and jet engines, as well as reducing emissions.
Air Canada pilots performed ground maneuvers on slopes and terrains typical of those at airports around the world, including driving in reverse from a gate and taxiing forward to a runway.
Tests also were performed at ramp temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit and at loads of up to 94 percent of the maximum takeoff weight for the aircraft.