Brussels Airport tests autonomous electric tow tractor in cargo operations

Brussels Airport has begun testing an autonomous electric tow tractor for transporting cargo trailers between warehouses and aircraft aprons. It is the first real-life trial of autonomous cargo transport at a Belgian airport.

The project is being conducted with WFS Cargo and Charlatte Autonom, a joint venture between Charlatte Manutention and Navya Mobility, under the EU-supported Stargate sustainability programme.

During the trial, the vehicle will follow four predefined routes within the airport’s cargo zone. It can tow up to four trailers and is limited to 12 km/h in autonomous mode. Testing will take place during off-peak periods under controlled conditions.

The tractor uses satellite navigation and laser sensors to detect its surroundings and avoid obstacles, while Navya’s software manages navigation in the mixed-traffic airport environment.

A trained operator will remain aboard throughout the trial to supervise the vehicle and intervene if necessary. Several WFS employees are also receiving training to operate safely alongside it.

The project will assess whether autonomous technology can improve the efficiency, safety and environmental performance of cargo transport while supporting airport employees. Its findings could help determine the conditions required for larger-scale deployment and will be shared with the Stargate consortium.