Honeywell (NYSE:HON) and Safran (NYSE Euronext Paris: SAF) have announced the completion a new test campaign for their electric green taxiing system on a TUIfly Boeing 737-800 aircraft in Montpellier, France.  

These tests evaluate runway conditions and calculate the necessary loads for moving a Next-Generation 737 aircraft on ground. For airlines operating high cycles, single aisle aircraft as TUIfly, the electric green taxiing system is expected to generate a projected savings of approximately USD $200,000 an aircraft per year according to both Honeywell and Safran.

Dr. Dieter Nirschl, TUIfly GmbH's chief executive officer, said “As an environmentally conscious airline, we are keenly interested in the potential of the electric green taxiing system, and in particular evaluating its development for a Boeing short-haul fleet.” 

The electric green taxiing system under development will utilize Honeywell’s auxiliary power unit (APU) generator to power motors in the main wheels, allowing aircraft to taxi without using the aircraft’s engines. Each of the aircraft’s powered wheels will be equipped with an electromechanical actuator, while unique power electronics and system controllers will give pilots total control of the aircraft’s speed and direction during electric taxi operations.

Yves Leclère, Safran's executive vice president, transformation added, “TUIfly clearly embraces a green approach in managing its operations, and we are very pleased that they have chosen to partner with Safran and Honeywell in the electric green taxiing system development. As a leading Boeing short range operator, we highly value TUIfly’s expertise and input during this test campaign.

“Honeywell and Safran’s technology leadership and focus on innovation solves operational cost challenges and drives efficiencies for our customers using the electric green taxiing system,” said John Bolton, global president of the Air Transport and Regional business for Honeywell Aerospace.“This second phase of the project will drive greater insight into how to make electric taxiing a more viable and efficient option for operators.”