Safran Landing Systems' new electric taxiing system will cut costs and reduce environmental impact of aircraft.

The company, which has a base close to Gloucestershire Airport, says the system will reduce fuel cost by up to four per cent or several hundred thousand pounds per aircraft annually.

It will also provide allow aircraft to taxi without tugs or jet engines, improve on-time departure rates, reduce carbon and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions and reduce noise on the ground.

Safran's electric taxiing system is a practical solution that addresses the concerns of today's airlines, which are looking for more efficient operations coupled with a decrease in their environmental footprint. Aircraft engines are naturally designed for maximum efficiency in flight, but not while taxiing on the ground. By installing this electric system, airlines can reduce both costs and environmental impact.

The world's constantly growing aircraft fleet and air traffic, especially for short-haul flights, means fuel consumption exceeding five million metric tons per year. Safran's electric taxiing system can provide fuel savings of up to 4% of the total for short and medium range operation.

Installing Safran's electric taxiing system limits polluting emissions during ground operations. For example, emissions of the greenhouse gas CO2 can be reduced by 60 per cent on average.

The electric taxiing system developed by Safran allows the aircraft to move without the aid of a special tractor, and to taxi without having to start its jet engines. Designed for single-aisle commercial jets, the system comprises two electric motors housed mounted on each main landing gear of the aircraft, with electrical power supplied by the plane's existing auxiliary power unit (APU).

Safran Landing Systems is the world leader in aircraft landing and braking systems. It is a trusted partner to 30 major commercial, military, business and regional aircraft manufacturers, supporting more than 27,000 aircraft making over 54,000 landings a day.