ULEMCo: Medium Aircraft Tow Tug Airside Demonstration

With the support of Innovate UK, ULEMCo has developed a demonstration platform for hybrid hydrogen powertrains for aviation ground support equipment (GSE). ULEMCo retrofit a medium aircraft tow tug (MATT) with an innovative hybrid drivetrain based on the combination of a 100% hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2ICE) and a high-voltage battery-electric powertrain system. This technology system is aimed at upcycling and retrofit opportunities, which helps to address challenges of budget constraints associated with existing long-life assets. Working with Cranfield University, Cranfield Airport, and the CAA, ULEMCo conducted the first airside operation of a hydrogen fuelled aircraft tug at a commercial airport in the UK.

This independent report was funded by the Department for Transport in the 2023-2024 financial year under the Sunak Conservative Government. The analysis and findings of the report represent the views of the researchers and should not be considered to be UK Government policy.