Tiger Tugs 8.0 Remote-Controlled Helicopter Tug – 5,000-lb Lift Capacity

Safe – Reliable – Purpose-Built for MD5xx Aircraft

The Tiger Tug 5.0 MD builds on the rugged design and proven performance of the Model 5.0, adding a custom fiberglass cradle and support assembly engineered specifically to support MD5xx series helicopters. This variant ensures secure, non-marring belly lift and transport for aircraft that benefit from a reinforced support interface rather than standard skid pickup. With Tiger Tugs’ wireless remote-control system, a single operator can maneuver MD helicopters safely in tight hangar or ramp spaces while maintaining full visibility of the aircraft.

Features

• Wireless remote control system for one-operator ground handling

• Fiberglass cradle and support assembly tailored for MD5xx helicopters

• Solid rubber drive tires for reliable traction and low floor marking

• Heavy-duty all-electric drive system with precision control

• Vertical raising scissor lift with secure support engagement

• Powder-coated steel frame for durability in aviation environments

• Built-in automatic battery charger

• Optional snow chains and GPU interface available

Optimized Support for MD Helicopters

The Tiger Tug 5.0 MD variant is outfitted with a specially designed fiberglass cradle system that interfaces with the MD5xx series aircraft in a way that avoids traditional skid lifting challenges. This design provides stable, secure support under the fuselage during lift and movement operations, preserving aircraft integrity while enabling smooth, controlled repositioning. The cradle’s construction resists wear and offers a gentle but firm contact interface appropriate for MD aircraft ground handling.

Remote-Control Steering & Lifting

Tiger Tugs are engineered with the operator in mind. The wireless remote control system allows you to position and steer your helicopter from any vantage point, eliminating the need for a ground guide. Whether you’re navigating a tight hangar bay or moving aircraft out to the ramp, remote operation gives you full control with minimal personnel.

When you position your Tiger Tug under the helicopter with the saddles lined up, this alignment stays that way as you now raise the supports to safely nest into the cross tubes. No need to guess where the saddles will end up after they are raised. This avoids possible damage to the belly skin that can happen by just missing the cross tubes! With the remote-control system, you are right there watching the lift take place. It is not necessary to walk back and find the raise switch and lose the ability to see if the saddles end up in the correct place.

Advantages

Tiger Tug exclusively uses the HeliSaddle™ supports, which provide the safest non-marring system on the market to protect your valuable investment. The patent-pending rail and support system provides a safe and efficient way of cradling your helicopter for transporting. Tiger Tugs use solid rubber drive tires, eliminating the need to remove and repair multiple hard-to-get-at pneumatic tires. The optional equipment GPU system has a built-in safety feature for disconnecting the GPU cables automatically if the GPU was not removed prior to taking off. The built-in smart charger monitors and charges each deep-cycle battery independently according to its needs. The tough, powder-coated frame resists rust and corrosion and stays looking new for years. Custom color and graphics packages are available.

The Tiger Tug 5.0 MD combines the industry-leading design of Tiger Tug remote-controlled helicopter tugs with an aircraft-specific support system tailored to MD5xx helicopters. Key advantages include:

• Proven non-marring lifting system that protects valuable aircraft

• Flexible, smooth electric operation for precise movement control

• Simplified handling that reduces dependence on multiple ground personnel

• Durable construction built to withstand frequent ground-handling cycles

• Reduced physical strain and enhanced safety during aircraft positioning

Specifications

• Weight: ~1,900 lbs (861.8 kg)
• Length: 11.5 ft (3.5 m)
• Width: 49.5" (125.7 cm)
• Height: 10" (25.4 cm)
• Ground Clearance: 3" (7.6 cm)
• Lift Capacity: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
• Empty Speed: ~3.3 mph (5.3 km/h)
• Loaded Speed: ~2 mph (3.2 km/h)
• Vertical Lift Range: ~10.5" (26.7 cm)

Aircraft Compatibility:

• Hughes 500
• MD 500C
• MD 500M Defender
• MD 500C
• MD 500C
• MD 500D
• MD 500E
• NH-500EMD
• NMD 530F
• MD 530N