Aircraft Tow Bars vs. Walk Behind Tugs

For almost as long as there have been airplanes, aircraft tow bars have been used to move them. Today, there are many different types of ground support equipment that can be purchased for the specific use of repositioning an airplane in and out of the hangar or moved around the airport ramp area. The most common type bars for mid to larger aircraft e.g. a commercial airliner - are the steel tow bars that are seen connected to the airplane nose wheel at one end and to a tractor type vehicle at the other end.

The tractor tug is common for moving heavy airplanes. Although you will see many light airplanes being moved with tractor tugs as well. If you own a light twin or single engine airplane - maybe a Beech Baron or Bonanza or any other aircraft in a similar weight class, considering the use of a tractor tug to move your airplane should be done very carefully when using tow bars. Because these airplanes are considered light, an unsuspecting tractor tug operator could cause measurable damage to the nose wheel gear if he/she is not extremely careful. The primary concern is the power available to the tug operator and the lack of ability to feel any strain from the tug during the pulling process. Light airplanes are not built to withstand all of the sudden pulling force that can be used with these tractors. It is very important that the line crew are trained and cautioned about how easily damage can occur when aircraft tow bars coupled with tractor tugs are used to reposition light airplanes.

Using a tractor tug is not the only way to move an aircraft safely. For light airplanes, there are numerous choices available none the least of which require the help of others. When aircraft tow bars are just too big for the job, look to the Dragger line of airplane tugs as a cost effective alternative. With tugs built to fit most light airplanes, Dragger has a complete line of gas and electric tugs for nose wheel as well as tail wheel aircraft. If you live in the cool to colder parts of the country, the gasoline models are recommended due mostly to the fact that batteries lose measurable endurance when the temperature drops or when operated in cold environments for extended periods of time.

Aircraft tow bars can be used very effectively when the operator is trained. For those that want to be in control when moving their airplane in and out of the hangar, owning Dragger tug will be desirable. Tow bars will always have an important role with larger aircraft. Having the additional control of a smaller tug will ensure against unnecessary damage to your aircraft when it is being repositioned.

The folks at Dragger will work hard to ensure they supply light airplane owners with the best airplane tugs to fit their budget as well as their airplane. Our ground support equipment is designed in a walk behind configuration and rated for aircraft weighing up to 6000 lbs.

Having the right equipment at your hangar can add to the great experience most of us encounter every time we have the privilege of going to the airport.

Call Dragger today with your specifications @ 216-941-9781 or visit our websites for more information.

www.dragger.com & www.airtug.com

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