How Are Jet Bridges Attached To Aircraft: The introduction of jet bridges has completely transformed the passenger experience when it comes to boarding and disembarking from planes. While staircases on the tarmac are still in use, particularly in remote airports or with budget airlines, the majority of travelers now benefit from the convenience of jet bridges. These enclosed walkways directly linking the terminal building to the aircraft have significantly improved safety, security, and efficiency in air travel.
Step back in time to the 1950s when the use of jet bridges first took flight. Since then, these marvels of modern engineering have undergone remarkable transformations. In this captivating article, we delve into the captivating history and evolution of jet bridges, as brilliantly highlighted by USA Today.
How Are Jet Bridges Attached To Aircraft
Development of The Jet Bridge
In the 1950s, a revolutionary concept took flight as jet bridges made their debut. United Airlines was among the pioneers, daring to experiment with different designs. As the 1960s rolled in, larger airports across the United States embraced this innovation, installing jet bridges to enhance passenger experience. By the 1970s and 1980s, these elevated walkways became a familiar sight at major airports worldwide. While the technology and design have evolved over time, the fundamental purpose of jet bridges remains unchanged.
Bridges are constructed to act as a flexible walkway, capable of being shifted aside while the aircraft navigates and then brought near. They are anchored at the terminal, with the capacity to pivot and occasionally extend. They do not physically connect to the aircraft but come into close proximity. Upon arrival, the aircraft will line up with markings on the ground and remain stationary. The alignment of the jet bridge is managed by an operator who lines it up with the aircraft door. Automation is now being introduced to some jet bridges.
Enhancing The Jet Bridge
Over the years, numerous design modifications have taken place, yet bridges continue to adhere to the same fundamental principles. Innovations such as longer gangways with multiple stages and an added pivot point have been introduced. By dividing into multiple bridges, a single jet bridge can now grant access to multiple doors. This not only enhances cabin diversity but also expedites the process of boarding and disembarking, which is crucial for achieving swift aircraft turnaround.
The overwing jet bridge, originally devised to handle the distinctive door configuration of the Boeing 747, where the doors are positioned on either side of the aircraft wing, this ingenious creation has found utility in select airports for the A340 and 777 aircraft as well. The more intricate variations of these bridges, which not only provide optimal efficiency by connecting to a single airport gate but also utilize pylons to gracefully traverse over the wing, truly exemplify the epitome of engineering brilliance.
Where Jet Bridges Are Attached To Aircraft?
Bridges are typically connected to the left-hand doors, a tradition that dates back to maritime practices. In the past, ships were serviced from the right side, while passengers boarded from the left.
Aviation has adopted this practice as the norm. Airports and gates are designed with a standard approach, where services are consistently loaded from the right side – including baggage, catering, and fuel.
Making The Jet Bridge Automated
We can expect to see an increase in the automation of jet bridges in the near future. The first one was implemented at Wellington airport in 2018, and trials with KLM took place at Airport of Schiphol in Amsterdam back in 2019.
Jet bridges equipped with advanced sensors and cameras effortlessly align and dock with aircraft, making the process faster and more cost-effective compared to manual operation. While prioritising safety as a top concern, the outcomes have been consistently positive, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
Neglecting The Jet Bridge
Despite their convenience, jet bridges are often bypassed by airlines, especially low-cost carriers, who opt to park at a stand nearby and use stairs and buses instead. This cost-saving measure is not due to any technical issues, but simply to cut expenses.
Airports often have additional usage fees for facilities like jet bridges, separate from the standard landing fees. These fees can vary – some airports charge a flat rate, while others charge per passenger for remote stands. Opting out of these services can help save money. Legacy airlines typically rely more on terminal stands and jet bridges.
Ryanair and other airlines are going the extra mile by installing built-in stairs on their aircraft, eliminating the need to rent them at airports. While this feature is typical in smaller planes, it’s not something you see on regular commercial narrowbodies.
Conclusion
- The design of jet bridges has advanced over the years, starting from the 1950s, but their primary function remains unchanged – connecting terminals to aircraft with the help of movable gangways.
- Thanks to the design updates, larger aircraft can now utilize longer, multi-stage gangways and overwing jet bridges.
- Jet bridges are typically connected to the aircraft’s left side as a tradition from maritime practices, and now automation is being implemented to boost productivity and cut down expenses.
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