Electric TaxiBot starts operating at Schiphol
Schiphol is taking the next step towards more sustainable and cleaner taxiing. This month, the airport – together with easyJet, Airbus, and Menzies – started using the world's first electric TaxiBot. When the Polderbaan Runway is in use, it transports Airbus A320 planes from the gate to the runway. The electric TaxiBot is an addition to the two hybrid TaxiBots that have been transporting KLM Boeing 737s to the Polderbaan since 2022.
Schiphol deploys the TaxiBot on the Polderbaan Runway because this is the runway with the longest taxi time. As a result, potential fuel savings can reach up to 65 percent. Lower kerosene consumption means reduced emissions of CO₂, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and (ultra)fine particles. This reduction is important for the environment and, above all, better for employees on the ground. Lower emissions result in cleaner air and less noise on the apron, which directly contributes to a safer, healthier and more pleasant workplace.
How the TaxiBot works
The TaxiBot, powered by supplier Smart Airport Systems, is a special tug that can move aircraft from the gate to the runway at speeds of up to 23 knots (42 km/h). The pilot controls the TaxiBot from the cockpit and only starts the aircraft engines just before departure on the runway. An employee sits in the TaxiBot and drives the vehicle back to the gate for the next flight after uncoupling.
By deploying the TaxiBot, we’re taking another practical step towards reduced emissions and noise on the apron. This is how we’re creating a healthier and cleaner workplace, and an ever more sustainable and modern airport that is ready for the future.
Scaling up and next steps
Schiphol currently has the world’s only electric TaxiBot and is using it to gain practical experience. Another three electric TaxiBots are expected to arrive later this year. This will allow deployment to be expanded to more aircraft types. Schiphol is working on the certification for Embraer aircraft with KLM Cityhopper and other parties. Transavia will soon participate with their Boeing 737 fleet.
With TaxiBot, we are taking a tangible step towards making our operations at Schiphol more efficient. We are currently rolling out the technology on four of our Airbus A320neo aircraft, allowing planes to taxi to the runway without using their engines. This immediately leads to lower fuel consumption, emissions, and ground noise. This is only possible thanks to the commitment of our partners, and in particular the Menzies Aviation team, who play a crucial role in our ground operations.
Why Schiphol is investing in this innovation
For more than a century, Schiphol has been a place where journeys begin and where the Netherlands is connected to the world. At the same time, the airport is continuously building a future that is better in balance with its surroundings. Together with airlines, ground handlers, Air Traffic Control Netherlands (LVNL) and Smart Airport Systems, we are developing solutions that make a difference in daily operations. This includes the electric TaxiBot. By continuing to invest in innovation and more sustainable progress, even when this requires complex steps, Schiphol is working towards a modern and future-proof airport with an eye for local residents, employees and the quality of the living environment. More on making the airport and aviation more sustainable: Schiphol | Moving towards more sustainable aviation