The TUG MA-50 is one of the most widely deployed baggage tractors in commercial and regional airport operations worldwide. Built by Tug Technologies Corporation, the MA series established a long reputation for durability, straightforward maintenance, and consistent ramp performance across decades of continuous service. The MA50 designation reflects the unit’s 5,000 lb drawbar pull (DBP) rating, which qualifies it to tow baggage cart trains, ground power units, lav carts, and water service carts — and to push back commuter and regional aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) up to 60,000 lbs.

The TUG MA50 currently available at Victory Ground Support Equipment has been fully reconditioned and is in excellent condition, ready for immediate ramp duty. This unit is powered by a Ford 300 inline-six gasoline engine and delivers the reliable 5,000 lb drawbar pull the MA series is known for. Full reconditioning means every major system has been overhauled — not just inspected — before the machine goes back into service. There are no deferred maintenance items waiting for the next operator.

TUG MA50 Specifications

• Drawbar Pull: 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
• Maximum Tow Capacity: Up to 60,000 lbs gross weight
• Engine: Gasoline (Ford 300 on this unit; diesel and propane configurations also exist in the MA series)
• Transmission: Automatic
• Fuel Capacity: 15.5 U.S. gallons
• Dimensions: L: 103″ (without coupler) | W: 55″ | H: 61″
• Wheelbase: 59″
• Braking: Dual calipers rear, split master cylinder; lever-operated drum parking brake
• Hitches: Front and rear

Victory GSE offers the TUG MA50 for both outright purchase and short- or long-term rental. The right choice depends on your operational situation:

Buying makes sense when:

• You operate year-round and need the unit as a permanent fleet asset
• Your fleet is expanding and you want to control long-term per-unit costs
• You have in-house maintenance capacity and want full ownership flexibility

Renting makes sense when:

• You’re bridging a fleet gap during procurement or repair of another unit
• You have seasonal peak operations and don’t need year-round capacity
• You’re a new ground handling operation building out your initial fleet
• You want to evaluate the MA-50 in your specific ramp environment before committing

Rental pricing is available on request. Contact us at (323) 581-7272 or fill out the quote form below with your timeline and requirements.

Q: What is the towing capacity of the TUG MA50? A: The TUG MA50 carries a rated drawbar pull of 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) and is rated to tow aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight up to 60,000 lbs. That covers commuter and regional aircraft pushback as well as standard baggage cart train towing across most mid-size commercial ramp environments.

Q: What engine does the TUG MA50 use? A: The MA-50 was manufactured with gasoline, diesel, and propane engine options depending on the production run and operator specification. The unit currently in stock at Victory GSE is equipped with a Ford 300 inline-six gasoline engine — one of the most widely serviced powerplants in ground support equipment, with deep aftermarket parts availability.

Q: Is the TUG MA50 available for rent? A: Yes. Victory GSE offers the TUG MA50 for both outright purchase and short- or long-term rental. Rental is a practical option for seasonal ramp operations, new ground handling startups, or FBOs bridging a fleet gap during procurement. Contact us at (323) 581-7272 or use the quote form below for rental pricing.

Q: What does “fully reconditioned” mean on a baggage tractor? A: A fully reconditioned unit has been completely overhauled — not just inspected or spot-repaired — with major components returned to proper working condition before the machine is offered for sale or rent. Victory GSE reconditions every unit in its inventory before it reaches a buyer, meaning the tractor is in excellent condition and ready for immediate ramp duty with no deferred maintenance.

Q: How does the TUG MA50 compare to the TUG MA-60? A: The MA-60 offers a higher drawbar pull rating (6,000 lbs) and is better suited for larger aircraft and heavier cart trains. The MA50 is the more common choice for regional airports, FBOs, and cargo operators running narrow-body and commuter fleets. Victory GSE carries both models — contact us for current availability.

Q: Where is Victory GSE located? A: Victory Ground Support Equipment is located at 8211 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90001. We serve airports, FBOs, cargo operators, and aviation service companies throughout the U.S. and can arrange shipping on most units. Call (323) 581-7272 or email info@victorygse.com.

Why Buy from Victory GSE?

Victory Ground Support Equipment has served airports, FBOs, cargo operators, and aviation service companies from Los Angeles for decades. Every unit goes through a thorough reconditioning process before it reaches a buyer. We carry a rotating inventory of used baggage tractors for sale including the TUG MA-50, MA-60, and a wide range of competing models from Harlan, Clark, Tiger, and United.

Whether you’re looking to buy or rent a used TUG MA50, we can work with your timeline and operational requirements.