In a technological breakthrough in aviation industry, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) is all set to commence first global commercial operations of Taxibots. In a very first, Spicejet will commence TaxiBot operations from May 28th, 2019 at Delhi Airport as the first carrier.

On Monday, DIAL has officially announced that the GMR led group signed an agreement with KSU Aviation Private Limited the operator of Taxibots.

A TaxiBot is a semi-autonomous vehicle developed by Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI) that enables Aircraft taxiing without aircraft engines running.

Maneuvered by the Pilot, the technology aims to reserve the use of aircraft engines and serves as a tug to tow aircraft safely and efficiently.

Commenting on this development the CEO, DIAL Videh Kumar Jaipuriar said, “DIAL pioneers adoption of newer technologies for enhancing the Air travel experience.”

 “The implementation of Taxibot system will act as a boon for the Airlines as approximately 213 liters of fuel is saved per flight. This converts into a potential saving of USD 35 Million annually for Domestic Carriers at Delhi Airport alone,” he added.

According to DIAL officials, “DIAL conducted intensive trials for the last eight months for assessing the operational viability and safety of TaxiBots. The trials included stakeholders like Director General of Civil Aviaition (DGCA), ATC and Airlines.”

“Almost 400 successful trials were conducted with

three airlines - Spicejet and two other domestic carriers.

To begin with, two TaxiBots areoperational and over a period of four years the number will go up to 15,” DIAL official said further.