TAXIBOTS

About: 

• TaxiBots are semi-robotic tow trucks to help airlines reduce use of Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) during taxiing. 
  • An aircraft can be steered with both its engines off with the help of a TaxiBot, which lifts and holds the aircraft’s nose wheel and transports it from the terminal to runway and back. 
    
    
  • This can help airlines save jet fuel (ATF), one of the largest expenses for an airline, accounting for nearly 30% of total operational costs. 
    
    
  
  
  
• SpiceJet and Jet Airways will carry out a live test with these tow trucks in coming days, following which the aviation regulator DGCA will grant approval for their use. These have been introduced by a firm named TaxiBot India.