Abstract: A vehicle for conveying aircraft is disclosed which includes a carriage system capable of lifting, supporting and conveying an airplane. The system has alternately deployable primary and auxiliary sets of wheels mounted from the carriage chassis. The wheels of the auxiliary set are vertically displaceable relative to the primary set so that the carriage chassis can be alternatively supported by either. A mechanized steering system is provided for the primary set of wheels. A lifting system is provided to lift an airplane of interest between self-supported and carriage-supported dispositions, as required. An engine-driven hydraulic system is provided to operate the vehicle and power the wheel sets, lift mechanism and steering of the primary wheels.