Abstract: A method for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft having at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel comprising the step of: moving the aircraft to a required location using at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel; wherein thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines) are turned on only when needed for takeoff or prior to landing, and are turned off until takeoff or after landing; whereby departing equipment, arriving equipment, and turnaround equipment are not at risk from operating thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines). An apparatus for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft is disclosed comprising a control unit for facilitating voice communication between a pilot and ground staff.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating voice communication between persons outside an aircraft and persons inside an aircraft, is disclosed, comprising: an external control unit comprising: voice sensing means; transmitting means for transmitting voice information to persons in said aircraft; receiving means for receiving voice information from persons in said aircraft; and amplifying means for enabling said voice information to be heard; and an in-aircraft control unit comprising: voice sensing means; transmitting means for transmitting voice information to persons external to said aircraft; receiving means for receiving voice information from persons external to said aircraft; and amplifying means for enabling said voice information to be heard.

Abstract: An apparatus for remotely controlling an aircraft having a self-propelled nosewheel, on the ground, comprises parking brakes; an APU on said aircraft; control means for applying and releasing said parking brakes; control means for turning on and off said APU; transmitting means for transmitting information to said parking brakes and said APU; receiving means for receiving information at said parking brakes; and receiving means for receiving information at said APU.

Abstract: A method for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft having at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel comprising the step of: moving the aircraft to a required location using at least one self-propelled undercarriage wheel; wherein thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines) are turned on only when needed for takeoff or prior to landing, and are turned off until takeoff or after landing; whereby departing equipment, arriving equipment, and turnaround equipment are not at risk from operating thrust equipment, (e.g. turbines). An apparatus for reducing the turnaround time of an aircraft is disclosed comprising a control unit for facilitating voice communication between a pilot and ground staff.