As the fastest-growing commercial airport in the U.S., Provo Airport is emerging as an innovation hub for next-gen sustainable aviation technology, thanks to a group of dedicated engineering students at Utah Valley University (UVU).
As part of their senior capstone project, the UVU team developed a battery-powered, autonomous aircraft tug that tows planes to and from runways with engines off—dramatically reducing fuel use, noise, emissions and the need for humans on the tarmac.
The tug is remotely operable via cellular data link with a live video feed and functions in multiple control modes: autonomously, remotely or in-person. It also features a hands-free, push-button attach/detach system, now patent pending.
Jet engines running during taxiing are both emissions intensive and expensive. A case study at Denver International Airport projected $72 million in fuel savings over 10 years with autonomous tugs. This innovation supports the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and addresses the fact that up to 36% of flight emissions occur during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
Since launching the project, the team has:
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Built a scale prototype capable of towing a Cessna-size aircraft.
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Demonstrated successful remote operation and return-to-base functionality at Provo Airport.
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Completed major upgrades, including a new drive system, enhanced attach/detach, and full remote operation.
Their project won first place in the FAA’s ACRP University Design Competition and drew interest from Delta Airlines and OshKosh Aerotech, which produces the LEKTRO line of tow tractors. UVU now aims to scale up to tow regional jets, with OshKosh verbally committing to donate a larger tug platform to aid in the next phase of development.
The current phase is supported by the Rocky Mountain Power Foundation and guided by faculty mentors Dr. Brett Stone and Matt Jensen, a former design engineer at Northrop Grumman.
Please let me know if you’d like to speak with Brett, Matt, or some of the UVU engineering students. I’m also happy to share additional info and photos.
