• Innovative tug allows for aircraft to be guided efficiently and effectively.  
  • ANA is the first Japanese airline to use the high-tech remote controlled Mototok Spacer 8600 tug.

TOKYO - All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest and 5-Star airline for seven consecutive years, announced today that it will begin using the Mototok Spacer 8600 high-tech remote controlled tug to pushback actual operating aircraft, at Kyushu Saga International Airport. The debut comes after a period of initial testing which began in September 2018 at Haneda International Airport with on-site training at Kyushu Saga International Airport beginning in mid-April this year.

The Mototok Spacer 8600 is a remote control operated airplane pushback tug that will reduce workload at airports and increase pushback precision by providing the controller with access to important location data in real time. Like ANA, Mototok has a reputation for excellence and has long set the standard in its field. The company was named “Ground Support Worldwide 2019 Product Leader of the Year” by AviationPros.com for its innovative features that simplify pushback operations, thanks to its intuitive control interface which allows ground handling personnel to perform more effectively, streamlining airport operations and decreasing flight delays. In addition to logistic benefits, Mototok’s tug type also reduces CO2 production, maintenance costs and fuel costs.

"ANA has earned its reputation for innovation by actively embracing the latest technological advancements, and the use of this tug is emblematic of our efforts to set the pace for integrating new technology into the airline industry," said Shinichi Abe, Executive Vice President of ANA. "The Mototok Spacer 8600 will help ANA become more eco-friendly while also boosting safety and cutting costs. By enhancing our current technological portfolio, our team will continue to improve every aspect of the air travel experience and challenge the status quo.”

In addition to its advanced remote control features, the Mototok Spacer 8600 is a powerful tug capable of handling almost any task. With a maximum towing capacity of 95 tons, the Mototok Spacer 8600 can reach speeds of up to 6 kilometers per hour while towing aircraft. Furthermore, its 80v battery allows it to be used to position up to 30 different aircraft without recharging.

With safety as its top priority, ANA will continue embracing the latest technological advancements and seeking out new innovations to improve every aspect of the air travel experience.