FutureFlight
Automation Could Be Available for Ground Handling of eVTOL Aircraft
Moonware says its electric, autonomously operated tow tugs could be ready to enter service at vertiports and airports by 2023.
Moonware tow tug
Moonware's planned electric tow tug is intended to operate fully autonomously. (Image: Moonware)

At the conclusion of a year-long joint project with Uber Elevate, California start-up Moonware is stepping up its plans to develop a fully autonomous, electrically powered aircraft tow tug. The company says the vehicle will be suitable for moving eVTOL aircraft at vertiports, such as those planned by Uber, but will also be able to handle larger airliners.

Moonware plans to make vehicles that in the business aviation and urban air mobility sectors will be able to tow aircraft up to a weight of around 10,000 pounds, with larger tugs planned for airliners with pulling power of up to around 600,000 pounds. The tugs will operate autonomously using software and control systems developed by the San Francisco-based company and are expected to be ready to enter service in 2023.