Passenger boarding bridges: the latest tech

Passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) are an integral part of airport infrastructure, connecting terminal buildings directly to aircraft, enhancing passenger convenience, and improving operational efficiency. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the main manufacturers and suppliers of PBBs have been experiencing a surge in demand, as airports upgrade their facilities following the return of global travel to normal levels, or simply catchup on the maintenance of bridges.

Jason S Summers, managing director of A-Bridge, a subsidiary of Dabico Airport Solutions, explains why business is so strong. “Different countries have bounced back in different ways,” he said. “In the United States, infrastructure funds have been more readily released by the Federal Government, allowing otherwise financially incapable airports to replace their PBBs. And there is increased demand for replacing parts, or the canopy systems on onboarding bridges, due to missing maintenance during the pandemic.”

This was also highlighted by Ignacio Medina, managing director at TK Airport Solutions: “During the pandemic, the majority of investments were halted or suspended. With the recovery of traffic, most of these have now resumed. Projects in the planning stages in 2020 have been reinitiated.”

Boom time benefits

Todd Tanner, director of business development – marketing at Oshkosh AeroTech, is likewise pleased with the demand. “The North American boarding bridge market continues to mirror the rebound of commercial aviation following the COVID-19 pandemic,” he observed. “A number of airports and airlines are investing in terminal and airside infrastructure improvements to enhance the overall experience of the travelling public. In the span of just a couple of years, the demands placed on commercial aviation infrastructure have strained capacity. We continue to see investment to accommodate the growth in passenger traffic at airports.”

This surge has led to a number of manufacturers landing big contracts, such as TK Airport Solutions supplying multiple PBBs to the new Istanbul Airport, with another 46 currently being installed at the new terminal in Lima, Peru, eight in Los Angeles, and a contract to install 90 PBBs at Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport in China. Oshkosh AeroTech is supplying major US airports, including Los Angeles and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, with an uptick in demand for its Jetways boarding bridge. “Recent large contracts for ourselves include Minneapolis, Rochester, Buffalo, and Tampa,” added A-Bridge’s Summers.

Most companies involved in the PBB market are riding the wave of demand. “We’ve seen a surge in orders for our flexible and scalable PBB bridge-head systems, particularly in regions undergoing significant airport expansions,” said Dirk-W Kessler, head of airport technology at the Hübner Group, which is focussing on folding canopies and platform systems for PBBs. “Our recent contracts include major airports in North America and Europe, emphasising our global reach and capability to meet diverse client needs.”

Technological benefits

With airports upgrading their PBBs in such large volumes, there also comes an opportunity to embrace the latest technology, aimed at enhancing efficiency, reliability, safety, and sustainability. One notable development here is the emergence of intelligent PBBs, which leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced sensors to offer automatic docking capabilities, adapting to different aircraft sizes and minimising the risk of damage, with the whole process fully automated. Market newcomer AviaSafe is among those developing this.

“Our PBBs will incorporate sophisticated AI algorithms to manage the docking process with unparalleled precision, continuously processing data from sensors placed on the bridge and the aircraft, ensuring accurate alignment,” said AviaSafe sales manager Ludwig Sayn Wittgenstein. “Backed by machine learning algorithms, which learn from every docking event, the system will improve its accuracy over time, based on historical data, weather conditions, aircraft type, and other variables,” he told Airports International.

“We’re also working on advanced passenger information systems (PIS), featuring digital displays and audio components embedded within the PBBs, providing passengers with real-time information, such as boarding times, gate changes, and other announcements, enhancing the travel experience. And the displays will double as valuable advertising platforms,” he added.TK Airports Solutions’ Ignacio Medina describes the progress his own company has made. “Aircraft docking and apron surveillance has benefitted from the introduction of 3D Lidar scanners, creating 3D point clouds of the complete apron,” he said. “Our ApronVision unit is able to scan 360°, and reach approximately 350m, which provides a superior overview of the apron, including all movements.”

Green to the core

Sustainability is another critical focus area, with airports increasingly adopting electric PBBs to reduce their carbon footprint, and the likes of California and Seattle even mandating regulations to cut emissions from airport operations. “Interest in renewable PBBs is a key trend, with more airports acknowledging cost savings while contributing to sustainability goals,” confirmed Summers at A-Bridge. “Our A-Bridge brand has introduced the ‘Renewable PBB’ concept, offering significant cost savings and environmental benefits. This is where we essentially refurbish an existing PBB, rather than supply a new one, with exceptional cost savings, and other benefits, such as lower carbon emissions and energy savings.”

Oshkosh AeroTech is also leading the way in eco-friendly innovations. “Our new product, AmpTek, helps bridge the gap for airports and airlines to move to electric ground support equipment (GSE) and the available power infrastructure,” explained Tanner. “This device smartly shares excess power, reducing the need for power grid upgrades and expensive construction works.”

Similar innovation is being undertaken by the Hübner Group. “Our commitment to sustainability is our research and development in coated fabrics for our folding canopies,” said Kessler. “We’re investing in material solutions which help our customers to reduce their ecological footprint. We’ve also integrated cutting-edge sensor technology to enhance docking precision while reducing operating time.”

Aviramp is also benefitting from the increase in PBB popularity, supplying two of its products to Gibraltar International Airport, which instead of stairs, comprise a series of ramps with low gradients, adjustable to any aircraft height, providing obstacle-free access for passengers with reduced mobility and young children. “Sustainability is a key pillar of our design philosophy,” added company founder and chief executive Graham Corfield. “Our ramps not only improve operational efficiency but also contribute to reducing an airport’s carbon footprint. We recently clinched orders with Edinburgh Airport, Air Tahiti, Aurigny Air Services, BAE Systems, and ISM for a range of electric and solar-powered ramps, and our deal with BAE even saw a solar-powered Regional ramp used by D-Day veterans as they departed the UK for the 80th anniversary in northern France.”

Changing demands

While manufacturers might be able to deliver on the latest technology, it is also critical that they keep up with market trends and adjust the design of their PBBs accordingly. For example, modern travellers expect a seamless, efficient, and comfortable experience, with airports introducing everything from biometric boarding and self-checkout kiosks to chatbots and so-called ‘smart trolleys’, and these standards must apply to each stage of the journey. “Today’s passengers are tech-savvy and expect real-time information, connectivity, and a smooth boarding process,” said TK Airport Solutions’ Medina. “Our PBB products are designed to meet these expectations while ensuring operational efficiency.”

This might see PBBs equipped with larger windows to provide natural light and an unrestricted view over the tarmac, as well as modern HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems, light detectors, and monitors to improve passenger flow and safety. Dual boarding bridges might be implemented to separate economy and business passengers, and generally allow better use of the airport space.

The airlines themselves are also driving changes in PBB requirements. As fleets modernise with larger and more advanced aircraft, the need for adaptable and flexible PBB systems increases. “With the introduction of new aircraft models, we’ve seen a shift in the type of PBBs required,” explained A-Bridge’s Summers. “Our customers are wanting to accommodate a variety of aircraft sizes and types, ensuring versatility, and future-proofing their investments.”

And it seems that bigger demands are being placed on safety and security measures. “Safety has always been a top priority, but with the current emphasis on health and security, following the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re incorporating more advanced surveillance and safety features into our PBBs,” said Tanner of Oshkosh AeroTech. “This includes everything from enhanced monitoring systems to biosecurity measures.”

Small but beautiful

While larger airports may dominate the PBB market, there is growing recognition of the needs of smaller facilities. Customised and scalable solutions are increasingly being developed to cater to specific requirements, while at the same time considering the unique geographical and operational constraints of smaller airports. This requires flexible and cost-effective PBB systems that enhance the passenger experience without significant capital investment.

A-Bridge is one of the companies trying to develop a suitable product. “Smaller airports often face unique challenges, but with the right solutions they can significantly improve their operations,” said Summers. “Limited infrastructure, harsh climatic conditions, and remote locations that require fixed-style PBBs compared to movable types are among the difficulties we see. We’re dedicated to providing products that meet the specific needs of these airports, ensuring they can offer a high level of service to their passengers.”

Aviramp’s durable and adaptable ramp solutions are particularly well suited for smaller airports, offering a cost-effective way to enhance passenger boarding and deboarding processes. “Our ramps are designed to minimise lifecycle costs and maximise operational uptime, making them ideal for smaller airports,” said chief executive Corfield.

The Hübner Group is also pleased to be assisting smaller airports. “We’ve developed a range of scalable apron level boarding solutions that cater to the specific needs of smaller airports, enabling them to improve passenger flow and operational efficiency without significant capital investment,” said Kessler.

Addressing challenges

Despite the opportunities, the PBB market faces ongoing challenges that manufacturers and suppliers must navigate. One of the most significant hurdles is the high cost associated with purchasing and maintaining PBBs for airports. Smaller locations, in particular, struggle with the financial burden of upgrading their infrastructure. “Cost is a major concern for many of our clients,” Aviramp’s Corfield admitted. “We’re continuously exploring ways to offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality and performance.”

Keeping up with the maintenance of PBBs can be another critical issue. The bridges have a long operational life, often exceeding 20 years, but this longevity necessitates regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance. “Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of PBBs,” explained the Hübner Group’s Kessler. “We offer comprehensive maintenance solutions tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring that our PBBs remain operational and efficient throughout their lifecycle. Our focus on high-quality materials and cutting-edge design minimises downtime and extends service life.”

For Medina at TK Airport Solutions, respecting the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines is key. “It’s important to train the service staff, and to always use original spare parts to ensure the maximum availability of the PBB along its lifecycle,” he told Airports International.

The slow-moving market for replacements and upgrades poses another challenge. Airports typically replace PBBs only when absolutely necessary, leading to periods of stagnation in demand. “The lifecycle of PBBs can be a double-edged sword,” noted A-Bridge’s Summers. “While it speaks to the durability of our products, it also means that the market demand for new units can be sporadic.”

And with environmental regulations becoming increasingly stringent, particularly in regions like North America and Europe, airports must comply while managing costs and operational efficiency. “Meeting environmental standards is crucial, but it adds another layer of complexity to our operations,” said Oshkosh AeroTech’s Tanner. “Our focus is on developing solutions that help airports meet these requirements without incurring prohibitive costs.”

Further opportunities

Despite these challenges, the PBB market shows much potential, particularly through innovation and strategic partnerships. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are emerging as a viable solution for implementing advanced PBB systems, with such collaborations alleviating the financial burden on airports, and ensuring the timely adoption of cutting-edge technologies. “On a corporate level, we are having ongoing discussions with perspective partner companies for autonomous driving, among other innovations,” confirmed Summers.

In terms of regions offering the most growth, many believe that North America will continue to contribute the largest share to the PBB market, driven by stringent emission regulations and substantial investments in airport infrastructure. In the Asia Pacific region, rapid airport expansion projects in countries like China and India are also driving demand for advanced PBB solutions. “We see both India and the US as key growth markets,” Summers continued. “Latin America is gaining momentum as well.”

Europe is witnessing significant activity too, with airports in the UK, Germany, and Spain upgrading their facilities to meet the demands of larger aircraft. And the Middle East and Africa are emerging markets with several new airport projects under way, creating lucrative opportunities for PBB manufacturers. “Where we see significant growth potential is in emerging markets in Asia and the Middle East,” said the Hübner Group’s Kessler. “With our production sites for the Rail and Bus divisions, for example, in the US, India, Europe and China, we have a global presence on almost every continent that we also want to use for our Airport Technology business. This is the advantage for our customers, that we tailor our solutions to meet specific needs.”

Access for all

Modern passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) can be a huge help to people with restricted mobility (PRM) issues when boarding aircraft. Manufacturers are continually innovating to enhance safety and ease of access, meeting diverse needs efficiently. Traditionally, people with impaired mobility have had to be carried up and down the air stairs by handlers, use an ambulift, or be taken away from other passengers and boarded on a modified truck. But thanks to companies such as Aviramp, whose product features gentle 8° slopes, wider walkways, and unique non-slip surfaces, aircraft access for those pushing wheelchairs or with restricted mobility becomes easier.

In fact, so suitable is Aviramp’s product that it will provide special boarding ramps to help athletes arriving in France at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for the Paralympic Games this summer. “There could be no better demonstration of the value of our ramps – and the way they are bringing real improvements to how people get off and on planes – than being used by athletes arriving for the games,” Aviramp founder and CEO Graham Corfield told Airports International. “Passengers board 30% quicker with our ramps, providing instant access for PRMs, wheelchairs, and families.”

Ignacio Medina told us how TK Airport Solutions has also made advances. “Our PBBs ensure accessibility by design, and we constantly work on improving this, minimising the slopes in the tunnels, increasing the anti-slippery flooring index, adding handrails in the transitions, and minimising trip hazards,” he said.