The Bangor International Airport is extremely excited to report....

that it has recently finished converting a diesel powered airplane tug to an electric battery operated tug. The conversion of this tug is just the beginning of the Airport updates to equipment that are more environmentally and economically friendly.

Tony Caruso, Assistant Airport Director is quoted as saying: “The Airport and the City are committed to being environmentally responsible as demonstrated through the implementation of Best Management Practices such as the conversion of existing equipment to more efficient and environmentally friendly models.”

Randy Canarr, 16-year mechanic technician veteran of the Ground Support Equipment department for the Bangor International Airport, is very excited about the new changes that he’s been asked to do with the Airport equipment. He has been sent to specific training for converting Airport ground support equipment to electric battery operated equipment. “Maintenance and operating costs will be cut in half, and we will no longer have to use anti-freeze, oil, transmission fluid and fuel to keep it running. The estimated charge capacity is for 8-10 hours of continuous use, and the tug should only need to be recharged every 2 or 3 days”, says Randy, when asked about the project.

The approximate cost for this conversion was $6,000. Normally a diesel-powered tug has an average working life of 3 to 5 years, however, by converting them to electric power; their working life could be lengthened to 7 years. It should lower major air pollutants approximately 94-100% and carbon dioxide as much as 40%. The estimated electric cost is only $.08-$.10 per hour. Next on the Airport’s conversion agenda will be a belt loader and the Ramp division’s six tugs.

Bangor International Airport is a full-service regional airport offering non-stop, affordable jet flights. The Airport is an enterprise fund entity operated by the City of Bangor, Maine and is supported solely through airport generated revenue.