As part of a comprehensive modernization project for Fraport AG, we have modernized a passenger boarding bridge to the latest state-of-the-art technology and equipped it with numerous innovative features that sustainably enhance both safety and performance.

For significantly more efficient handling, the modernized passenger boarding bridge features an automatic pre-positioning for the respective aircraft and further automatic functions, which simplifies the docking procedure for the operator considerably.

Additionally, the passenger boarding bridge features an automatic height adjustment functionality, which adjusts the position of the docked passenger boarding bridge in real-time to accommodate changes in aircraft height caused by loading or unloading processes. This ensures a precise and stable connection to the aircraft door at all times.

An essential element of the modernization is the contactless collision protection system, which monitors the distance between the passenger boarding bridge and the aircraft, ensuring that no damage can occur during docking operations. This feature is accompanied by a contactless undercarriage protection system, which ensures reliable detection of people and obstacles beneath the passenger boarding bridge. As soon as a potential hazard is identified, the bridge automatically stops to prevent collisions with people or objects. Furthermore, an innovative anti-collision system has been implemented to prevent collisions with the adjacent passenger boarding bridge, allowing movements only within the available workspace.

Passenger and personnel safety has been further enhanced with the installation of a light grid. This system monitors the access areas of the rotunda and the cabin of the passenger boarding bridge. As soon as an unauthorized person enters the bridge during movement, the operation is halted immediately to prevent potential hazards.

Numerous additional functionalities complete the safety and technology concept of the modernized passenger boarding bridge. Intuitive operator terminals with touchscreens ensure easy handling and operation, while state-of-the-art sensors for detecting length, height, position, and angle of inclination of the passenger boarding bridge enable precise control. An integrated camera system, which includes a damage detection camera with recording functionality, supports the monitoring and documentation of operational procedures. Additional safety measures, such as the cabin and tunnel brake, monitoring of the cabin chain and a system for detecting broken tunnel cables provide additional layers of security. A reliable emergency control system ensures functionality of the bridge even in the event of an unexpected system outage. Moreover, the passenger boarding bridge is fully integrated into the airport’s network and monitoring systems. This allows for seamless integration into the existing infrastructure and facilitates centralized monitoring and control.