Honeywell (NYSE: HON) has signed a memorandum of understanding with French aerospace firm Safran to create a joint venture that will deliver an electric taxiing system for new and existing aircraft. The companies expect first delivery to be in 2016.
The taxiing system will use aircrafts’ auxilliary generators and electric motors during ground operations. The companies say it will reduce customers’ fuel consumption by up to four percent and reduce gate and tarmac congestion by allowing aircrafts to take off quicker.
Both companies will provide electric power mechanical systems and systems integration services.
“When it comes to solving big, weighty challenges for our customers, Honeywell and Safran have unmatched track records for innovation and execution, ” said Tim Mahoney, president and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace. “Today, the cost of fuel and the related cost of carbon emissions are right at the top of the list of the biggest concerns for any airline. By using the new electric green taxiing system to provide the power needed for ground-level maneuvering, Honeywell and Safran can save our airline customers several hundred thousand dollars per aircraft per year.”
