Autonomous tow tractor to solve airport issues
EasyMile launched a test project at Toulouse Blagnac airport to demonstrate how autonomous vehicles can improve luggage and freight logistics.
The TractEasy tow tractor has been operating at the international airport since November 2022, and is already demonstrating driverless transport’s readiness for real commercial service, from landing to baggage hall.
The pilot at Toulouse-Blagnac is testing the vehicle on common airport infrastructure, including intersections, roundabouts, and turning circles, and in different conditions, such as rain, fog and snow.
It is addressing known airport issues, such as labor shortages, and the need for increased efficiency.
TractEasy already in use at Narita International in Japan, Schiphol in the Netherlands and Changi airport in Singapore, as well as major automotive manufacturing plants and logistics centers in Europe and the United States.
Global leaders in a local partnership
The project brings together several world-leading partners for Toulouse-based EasyMile.
EasyMile’s partners on the Toulouse-Blagnac project include Alvest Group, a global leader in design, manufacturing and distribution of technical products for the aeronautical industry. These include airport ground support equipment (GSE), spare parts and services, technical adhesives, signage for the airport and the airlines, technical adhesives, signage for the aeronautical and industrial markets.
Also a key component is TLD, which manufactures the TractEasy, and Smart Airport Systems, the tow tractor’s operator.
The project’s other key partner is Alyzia, the leading French company specializing in ground handling services for airlines and in particular ramp services, is present in major French and Belgian airports.