Choosing Ground Support Equipment

Your ground support equipment can have direct and lasting effects on the efficiency and, therefore, the profitability of your organization. Because airlines and ground support providers operate on fluctuating profit margins, you may not know for sure when you'll next be able to replace your ground support equipment. That means inefficiencies can have compounding implications over time.

With that in mind, it’s important to choose carefully and think of your purchase as the important business investment it is. Consider these seven factors before your next selection of aviation ground support equipment.

1. Specialization

The best aircraft ground support equipment for your operation depends on the type of aircraft you’re supporting and the conditions you’ll need to operate in. For example, when it comes to aircraft tugs, also known as pushbacks and tow tractors, you’ll need to consider the weight and location of the aircraft you intend to move.

For military operations, you need designated military aircraft tugs. You may even need a custom-built solution. (Eagle Tugs can help with that.)

It’s also important not to attempt to repurpose equipment for unintended uses. For example, never use a baggage or cargo tractor for moving aircraft. Doing so could not only be inefficient and damage equipment but can also be extremely dangerous. Each piece of ground support equipment you select should be specifically made for the way you intend to use it.

2. Versatility

Be sure to choose ground support equipment to cover each scenario you’re likely to encounter. Keep in mind the various weather conditions your equipment will face and the physical spaces it will need to work in.

When selecting aircraft tugs, for example, maneuverability can be extremely important. For pushbacks or moving into tight spaces, such as hangers, you may need a towbarless vehicle.

3. Parts Availability

To get the most out of your ground support equipment, you’ll want to keep it as long as it’s safe and operational. That may mean eventually replacing parts instead of buying all-new ground support equipment.

Look for a manufacturer that makes replacement parts available quickly to minimize downtime.

4. Technical Support

The best ground support equipment suppliers will be available to provide technical support if and when you need it.That could include operational questions early on, or you may find you have complex maintenance questions down the road. Look for that technical support contact information before you make a selection.

5. Customization

To give your brand added visibility and give your operation a more professional look, you may want to consider customizing your ground support equipment with your corporate colors. Eagle Tugs airplane pushbacks, for example, are available with custom paint schemes to match your plane or your overall brand.

6. Proven Company

You want your ground support equipment to come an established, experienced brand. This is a strong indicator of quality and reliability. When it comes to aviation tugs, Eagle Tugs has been around since 1969 and trusted by customers worldwide. 

7. Warranty

If ground support equipment is truly reliable, it will be backed by a solid warranty. The length and terms of the warranty will vary based on the specific type of equipment. Of course, the longer, the better. If you’re looking for aircraft tugs, know that Eagle Tugs offers an exceptional warranty of 3 years or 3,000 miles for its ground support equipment for aircraft applications.

If you keep these seven factors in mind, you’ll be much more likely to make an equipment selection that pays off in the long term.

Start your selection process now by exploring Eagle Tugs aircraft pushbacks and tugs and trusted Tronair ground support equipment.