College of Business Research

In this study we conduct a feasibility study using simulation for AirTran Airways at their hub in Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). This study pertains to using super-tug to transport aircraft to and from the airline's maintenance facility.

The purchasing price for these super-tugs is around a quarter of a million dollars. This study attempts to investigate the possibility of reducing costs through saving jet fuel. This study adopts simulation to analyze the annual savings by studying the numbers needed, as well as the utilization and operation cost for these super-tugs. The results are very interesting, enabling the airline to clearly evaluate the cost and benefits of purchasing new super-tugs.