Towbarless vehicles are now ready for use at Velana International Airport (VIA), Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the airport’s operator said.

In a post on X, MACL stated that final preparations are underway and the system will soon be operational.

Towbarless tractors (TBLTs), also known as towbarless towing vehicles (TLTVs), are advanced ground-handling equipment used to tow aircraft without a traditional towbar. These vehicles lift the aircraft by its nose wheel and tow it directly, offering several advantages over conventional towing methods.

Currently, aircraft at VIA are moved from the apron to the runway using a towbar system. Once towbarless vehicles are introduced, use of the towbars will be discontinued.

MACL said that eight staff members have been trained to operate the new equipment. The final step before implementation is the completion of a risk assessment involving relevant stakeholders.