Oshkosh AeroTech advances sustainability, autonomy, connectivity, and intelligent monitoring systems for airports of the future with its LEKTRO 88i towbarless electric tow vehicle.
Designed to be highly maneuverable in hangar and ramp aircraft positioning, the LEKTRO 88i was displayed at CES 2025 in Las Vegas in January. It is a redesign of the company's legacy product, the LEKTRO 88.
“At Oshkosh AeroTech, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions that support the aviation industry’s evolving needs,” Ranjit Nair, president of Oshkosh AeroTech states. “CES 2025, alongside our parent company Oshkosh Corporation, [offered] an exciting opportunity to showcase how our technologies are advancing ground support operations, driving efficiency and providing outstanding passenger experiences across airports.”
With a purpose-built chassis, LEKTRO 88 tow tractors are designed to move aircraft with an MTOW up to 120,000 lbs., making them ideal for pushbacks and towing regional jets and turboprop aircraft. They are also able to tow a wide range of business aircraft and are popular for FBO corporate flight departments worldwide.
Aircraft nose gear is secured using a patented strap and cradle system, which eliminates tow bars and reduces wear and tear on landing gear. This helps simplifiy maintenance and reduce the complexity that may come with the capture systems on many towbarless tractors.
Electric LEKTRO 88 models are low maintenance while offering zero-emission operations in all weather, or indoors. Hybrid diesel/electric onboard charging options are available.
Meanwhile, a tight turning radius helps create a small operational footprint and maximizes hangar utilization, while single-person operation and ease of use aid in simplifying training to alleviate workforce challenges.
LEKTRO 88i advances design and intelligence
In this reboot of the LEKTRO 88, Oshkosh AeroTech's team of engineers focused on prioritizing quality of design, operational efficiency, and maintenance accessibility. One significant change is the move to more modern PLC logic, which allows for telemetry integration through the company's iOPS platform.
This means Oshkosh’s advanced connectivity solution will be available to accommodate different aspects of fleet management. Also, through PLC control, features such as enhanced control functionalities, including slowed turns and accelerated winch-out capabilities, have been implemented.
For maintenance and repair purposes, the tractor has been streamlined with accessibility features and storage capacity has been increased by 27%.
Further, the LEKTRO 88i features AC drive motors, full compatibility with Lithium-ion batteries, and an enhanced drive/steering design.
Innovating for the airport of the future
Oshkosh AeroTech says its presence at CES emphasized its role in shaping the future of aviation through advanced ground support and gate equipment technologies, including:
iOPS intelligent monitoring systems - a fleet management solution that provides real-time data on ground support equipment and gate operations. The iOPS technology enables actionable insights, remote diagnostics, and promotes efficiency, helping address downtime and optimizing operations for smooth passenger flow.
Sustainable ground support solutions - including electrification technologies designed to help control emissions, drive energy efficiency and align with environmental goals.
Operator support enhancements - advanced telematics, geo-fencing and operator monitoring tools to help promote secure, efficient and environmentally responsible operations.
Autonomous vehicles - promoting efficient operations through the use of autonomous, self-driving vehicles and gate equipment.
