Meet the Parents

"We must ensure that we offer products as competitively as possible without compromising design and reliability," confirms Doane. "We can then continue to develop our various product ranges to ensure we are meeting current and future requirements."

This year has already seen the company introduce its new Douglas-Kalmar TBL 50 towbarless tractor for pushback and maintenance towing operations for regional aircraft, as well as a new version of the Mu-Meter runway friction measuring equipment.

"We are also about to launch the Douglas-Kalmar TBL 25 battery electric towbarless pushback tractor," adds Doane. The unit will be able to handle general aviation, business and regional type aircraft with maximum ramp weights up to 30 tonnes.

At the other end of the scale, comes the introduction in early 2003 of the Douglas-Kalmar TBL600 for handling the new Airbus A380, itself due in service in 2006.

Looking forward, the omens are good for Douglas, particularly if the industry continues its gradual recovery. Indeed, the success or otherwise of the UK manufacturer may well influence its new parent's decision to explore additional GSE ventures.

"We'll just have to wait and see how Douglas develops first," says Doane.

Photos courtesy of Douglas Equipment.