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Jet bridge
Jet bridge
Jet bridge
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United Airlines planes lined up at their jet bridges at Denver International Airport in March 2014

A jet bridge[a] is an enclosed connector which most commonly extends from an airport terminal gate to an airplane, and in some instances from a port to a boat or ship, allowing passengers to board and disembark without heading outside and being exposed to harsh weather.[2] Depending on building design, sill heights, fueling positions, and operational requirements, a jet bridge may be fixed or movable, swinging radially, or extending in length.[2] The jetway was invented by Frank Der Yuen.[3]

Similar devices are used for astronauts to enter spacecraft, which are installed at the appropriate height of the launch tower.

History

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A jet bridge at El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, Colombia in August 2018
Three jet bridges feeding a Lufthansa Airbus A380 at Frankfurt Airport in Frankfurt, Germany in June 2011
Video of jet bridge being moved to an American Airlines plane at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

Before the introduction of jet bridges, passengers normally boarded an aircraft by walking along the ground-level ramp and climbing a set of movable stairs, or airstairs on aircraft so equipped. Mobile staircases or "ramp stairs" are employed at many airports around the world, particularly smaller airports, terminals supporting low cost carriers, and overflow using remote stands during peak travel demand at larger airports.

United Airlines tested an early prototype "Air Dock" in 1954.[4] The first operational "Aero-Gangplank", as it was dubbed by inventor Lockheed Air Terminal, was installed by United at Chicago's O'Hare Airport in 1958.[5][6]

Advantages

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Jet bridges provide all-weather dry access to aircraft and enhance the security of terminal operations. They are often permanently attached at one end by a pivot (or rotunda) to the terminal building and have the ability to swing left or right. The cabin, at the end of the loading bridge, may be raised or lowered, extended or retracted, and may pivot, to accommodate aircraft of different sizes.[2] These motions are controlled by an operator's station in the cab. The cab is provided with an accordion-like canopy, which allows the bridge to dock with aircraft with differing shapes, and provide a nearly weather-proof seal. Additionally, many models offer leveling devices for the portion of the floor that makes contact with the aircraft; this allows passengers to slowly transition from level aircraft floor to sloping jet bridge floor. As such, jet bridges provide enhanced access to aircraft for passengers with many types of disabilities and mobility impairments, as they may board and disembark without climbing stairs or using a specialized wheelchair lift.

Some airports with international gates have two or even three bridges for larger aircraft with multiple entrances. In theory, this allows for faster disembarking of larger aircraft, though it is quite common, especially on aircraft such as Boeing 747s and Boeing 777s, to use one bridge for only passengers in first class and/or business class, while the other bridge is for the use of passengers in economy class. In some designs, the second jet bridge would even extend over the aircraft wing, being suspended from an overhead structure. This was, for example, originally adopted for most wide body gates at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The Airbus A380 is unique in that both of its two passenger decks have outside access doors and so using loading bridges for each deck is possible, having the advantage of faster aircraft loading (in parallel). Faster loading can lead to lower airport charges, fewer delays and more passenger throughput for the airport, all factors which impact an airline's bottom line.

Though loading bridges are usually permanently attached at their terminal-building end, leaving only the cab free to move, this is not always the case. Those at Melbourne Airport's international terminal, and at Hong Kong's former Kai Tak Airport, are anchored in the middle and movable at either end to permit the terminal building-end to be raised or lowered to connect with either the departures level or the arrivals level of the terminal building.

Disadvantages

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Jet bridges may rarely collapse; incidents have happened at airports in Sydney,[7][8] Hong Kong, Seattle, Los Angeles,[9] Baltimore,[10] and Islamabad,[11] among others.

Airports frequently charge increased fees for using loading bridges on stands as opposed to mobile stairs; therefore low-cost airlines such as Ryanair have avoided using these wherever possible.

Marketing

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Marketing space on jetways was uncommon until the early 2000s when HSBC launched their campaign "The World's Local Bank".[12] Peter Stringham, head of marketing for HSBC worldwide,[13] worked closely with Lowe's, the Group's global agency, in developing the campaign which required a single global platform. Stringham noticed jetways were a global medium which had not been tapped.[14] HSBC thus bought the rights to jetways across major localities in 81 countries and territories.[15]

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See also

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Notes

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References

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Jet bridge

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from Grokipedia
A jet bridge, also known as a passenger boarding bridge, jetway, or aerobridge, is an enclosed, movable walkway that extends from an gate to an 's door, enabling passengers to board and disembark while protected from and ground hazards. These structures are typically elevated and powered by electric motors, allowing them to adjust in height, length, and angle to accommodate different types. The concept of the jet bridge emerged in the mid-20th century amid the rise of commercial jet aviation, with early prototypes dating back to in the form of basic movable walkways at airports like and Gatwick. Modern jet bridges trace their origins to post-World War II innovations, including the 1952 Whiting Loadair system in , , and the 1954 Airdock design in , but the pivotal development came in 1958 when Lockheed introduced the Aero-Gangplank at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, marking the first widespread use of an enclosed, telescoping bridge. By 1959, had implemented similar enclosed systems at , standardizing left-side boarding and accelerating their global adoption. Jet bridges offer significant advantages, including enhanced passenger safety by minimizing exposure to ramp vehicles and , faster boarding times, and improved for passengers with disabilities through features like lifts. They come in various types to suit different and needs, such as the common apron-drive model that rotates from a fixed , nose-loader bridges for direct front-door access, T-loaders for multiple-door servicing, and specialized designs like the A380 apron-drive for . Despite these benefits, challenges include potential damage from misalignment, constraints at crowded gates, and maintenance requirements for their complex mechanical systems. Today, jet bridges are a standard feature at major worldwide, evolving with advancements in and materials to support efficient .

Fundamentals

Definition and Purpose

A jet bridge, also known as a passenger boarding bridge, jetway, aerobridge, or skybridge, is an enclosed, elevated, and movable passageway that connects an gate directly to an door. This infrastructure element allows for the seamless transfer of passengers and crew between the terminal and the while maintaining a controlled environment. The term "jetway" originated as a trademarked brand name for early models developed by manufacturers like Pacific Iron and Steel Corporation in the late , and it has since become a generic descriptor for similar devices. The primary purpose of a jet bridge is to provide sheltered access, protecting passengers from weather conditions such as rain, snow, extreme temperatures, or wind during boarding and deboarding. This enclosed pathway facilitates efficient flow, reducing aircraft turnaround times by streamlining the boarding process and minimizing exposure-related disruptions that could lead to delays. Additionally, it supports continuity in protocols by keeping passengers within the secured terminal area until directly reaching the . Today, they are a standard feature at major airports worldwide, accommodating both wide-body and to enhance overall .

Basic Components

A typical jet bridge, also known as a passenger boarding bridge (PBB), consists of several key structural and mechanical elements designed to facilitate secure connectivity between the airport terminal and . The rotunda serves as the fixed attachment point to the terminal building, featuring a rotating mechanism around a central support column that allows the bridge to pivot horizontally for alignment with the . Adjacent to the rotunda are the telescopic tunnels, which form the extendable corridor and typically comprise two to three nested sections that slide outward to bridge the distance to the ; the outermost section is the largest to accommodate passenger flow. The elevation system, often utilizing hydraulic cylinders or recirculating ball screws mounted on parallel columns, adjusts the height of the bridge to match the door sill, ensuring level access. At the end, the cabin provides a sealed passenger interface, incorporating an adjustable canopy or folding to create a weatherproof enclosure around the . Supporting mobility, the traction system employs wheels or rollers, typically with pneumatic or solid rubber tires driven by AC gear motors, enabling precise horizontal movement across the apron. Construction materials prioritize durability, lightness, and weather resistance to withstand environments. The telescopic tunnels and frames are primarily built from aluminum alloy for its properties and resistance, while structural elements like the rotunda and elevation columns may incorporate for added strength. Rubber seals and ensure weatherproofing at joints and the cabin interface, and glass panels are integrated into walls and for and natural lighting. Standard dimensions accommodate most commercial while optimizing space. When fully extended, a jet bridge measures approximately 20-30 in length, with a width of 2.5-3.5 to align with aircraft doors and an adjustable height ranging from 2 to 10 to accommodate varying door sill elevations. Interior clearances typically include a minimum height of 2 and width of 1.3 for passenger comfort. Integration with airport infrastructure occurs primarily at the rotunda, where electrical panels provide power (e.g., 120V outlets), pneumatic or hydraulic lines supply elevation and drive systems, and data connections (such as CAT6 outlets) enable control and communication interfaces.

Types and Variations

Standard Configurations

The standard configuration of a jet bridge, also known as a boarding bridge (PBB), employs a single-tunnel telescopic that predominates in for single-deck , including the and Airbus A320. This setup features one extendable corridor composed of two or three telescoping sections with a rectangular cross-section, where the largest section is positioned nearest the to facilitate smooth flow while adjusting to distances between the terminal gate and the parked plane. The telescoping mechanism allows extension or retraction over a range typically spanning 10 to 20 meters, ensuring precise docking without requiring repositioning. A fixed rotunda at the terminal interface incorporates pivoting capability, generally supporting 180 to 270 degrees of to accommodate varying parking angles on the and align the bridge with the designated . This rotational flexibility, driven by electric motors or hydraulic systems, enables the bridge to service multiple stand positions efficiently within constrained gate areas. Height adjustments in standard configurations rely on automated leveling systems, often electromechanical or hydraulic, to elevate or lower the outer end of the bridge to the door sill, typically ranging from 3 to 5 meters for narrow-body jets. These systems compensate for undercarriage compression variations caused by , , and passenger loads, maintaining a level walkway with a recommended of 1:16 to 1:20, not exceeding 1:12 (8.33%), for accessibility and safety. Designed primarily for nose or mid-door boarding on , these bridges integrate drive or drive systems to enhance adaptability to and plane geometries. drive configurations position the entire bridge on a mobile with wheels or bogies, allowing lateral and rotational movement across the tarmac for versatile utilization amid changing mixes. In contrast, drive setups keep the bridge fixed at the terminal while extending the corridor sections, suitable for stable layouts with minimal repositioning needs. Core components like the tunnels and mechanisms are calibrated during installation to match site-specific terminal heights and door widths, typically 0.7 to 1 meter.

Specialized Designs

Specialized jet bridges adapt to unique operational challenges, such as accommodating multi-level aircraft, space-constrained gates, or temporary setups at less-equipped facilities. These designs prioritize flexibility, efficiency, and safety while addressing limitations of standard single-tunnel configurations used for most narrow- and wide-body jets. Double-deck bridges cater specifically to wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380, featuring dual tunnels or elevating platforms that enable simultaneous access to upper and lower passenger doors. This setup allows for efficient boarding of up to 555 passengers by connecting separate bridges to each deck, reducing turnaround times compared to sequential access. For instance, at airports like Los Angeles International and San Francisco International, dual bridges handle the A380's double-decker structure, with one bridge serving the main lower deck and another elevated to the upper deck. Manufacturers such as TK Elevator provide flexible systems that service both decks of A380s alongside other aircraft types at dedicated gates. ADELTE's configurations also support A380 operations through multi-body designs with hydraulic or electromechanical elevation to align with varying door heights. Nose-loader bridges and multiple-bridge gates address constraints in parking areas or high-throughput environments, including configurations for freighter aircraft and busy passenger hubs. Nose-loader designs, anchored to the terminal with a telescopic tunnel extending to the aircraft nose, facilitate precise docking in restricted spaces where standard rotunda-based bridges cannot maneuver effectively. These are used for passenger boarding on commercial flights in tight gate setups, as seen in TK Elevator's models with automated pre-positioning to minimize errors. For high-volume hubs, multiple bridges per aircraft—typically two, one forward and one aft—accelerate passenger flow on wide-bodies, with post-2020 airport builds often incorporating 2–3 bridges per widebody gate to support larger fleets. While freighters primarily rely on cargo-specific loaders, some hybrid gates adapt nose-loader principles for mixed-use scenarios at cargo-passenger facilities. ADELTE's multi-body PBBs, with two or three sections, exemplify this by enabling forward and aft access for efficient operations. Remote or mobile bridges offer portable solutions for temporary gates, remote stands, or smaller regional lacking fixed infrastructure. These non-rotunda units, often towed manually or via , provide step-free access without permanent installation. Aviramp's International model, for example, serves wide-bodies like the and 787 on remote stands, using a solar-powered or diesel hydraulic system operable by one person, with heights adjustable from 320 cm to 520 cm and anti-slip flooring for all-weather use. Such bridges enhance flexibility at under-equipped sites, supporting from A320s to A380 lower decks while requiring minimal maintenance. Post-2020 innovations emphasize and compactness, including electrified designs that replace systems with electric motors to cut emissions and use. Regulatory pressures in the and have driven adoption of these eco-friendly bridges, which integrate recyclable materials and hybrid power for quieter, more efficient operation. Slim-profile bridges, tailored for tight stands accommodating aircraft like the 787, feature compact 'low rider' elevations and reduced tunnel widths to fit constrained layouts without compromising alignment. TK Elevator's electromechanical systems and Aviramp's solar variants exemplify this shift, promoting greener airport infrastructure.

History

Invention and Early Development

The jet bridge, also known as a passenger boarding bridge, originated from the need to streamline aircraft operations during the post-World War II aviation boom. Early precursors included basic movable walkways at airports like and Gatwick in , the 1952 Whiting Loadair system in , , and the 1954 Airdock design in . Frank Der Yuen, a Chinese-American aeronautical engineer and Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate, conceptualized the modern enclosed device in the mid-1950s, drawing on his wartime experience with efficient loading systems. This innovation addressed the challenges of expanding airports and the emerging , where increasing passenger volumes demanded faster boarding times, protection from inclement weather, and reduced exposure to blast—issues exacerbated by the shift from propeller-driven to faster jets like the Boeing 707. Development accelerated when Lockheed Air Terminal, Inc. licensed Der Yuen's concept and collaborated with United Air Lines to build the first , known as the Aero-Gangplank. This early model featured a telescoping, enclosed that extended from the terminal to the , powered by hydraulic systems for elevation and a motorized dolly for horizontal movement, with manual assistance for final alignment. The design evolved from fixed gangways used at earlier , offering greater flexibility for nose-in parking and marking a shift toward fully movable units. The inaugural installation occurred on March 28, 1958, at Chicago's , where United Air Lines deployed the Aero-Gangplank for testing with DC-7 propeller aircraft until November of that year. A subsequent rollout followed in 1959 at , serving both United and flights, further validating the technology's practicality. Key technical milestones included the filing of U.S. Patent 3,060,471 on July 27, 1960, by Der Yuen and Francis B. Johnson, assigned to Lockheed Aircraft Corporation, which detailed the three-section telescoping mechanism, rotatable vestibule, and hydraulic adjustments for precise aircraft docking. By 1960, these initial hydraulic and manually operated models had demonstrated reliable performance, paving the way for broader implementation while transitioning from experimental prototypes to standard airport infrastructure.

Global Adoption and Evolution

The adoption of jet bridges accelerated in the 1960s and 1970s as major airports transitioned to handle the growing volume of jet aircraft traffic. In the United States, early installations occurred at key hubs such as New York's (JFK) and (LAX), where ordered 19 passenger boarding bridges in 1959 from the Pacific Iron and Steel Corporation to facilitate sheltered passenger access for its new jet services. These bridges marked a significant shift from open-air boarding, improving efficiency and weather protection at high-traffic facilities. In , the technology gained traction in the 1960s, with installations at major airports to handle increasing jet traffic. During the 1980s and 2000s, jet bridge designs evolved to address the demands of larger aircraft and operational . The introduction of wide-body jets, particularly the starting in 1970, necessitated longer bridges—often extended to over 70 meters—to reach the aircraft's main deck doors, leading to widespread modifications at international gateways. Concurrently, a transition occurred toward electro-hydraulic and electromechanical drive systems, which provided more precise control for extension, elevation, and alignment compared to earlier manual or purely hydraulic mechanisms, enhancing reliability for high-frequency operations. In the , jet bridges integrated advanced to optimize docking and safety. By the , systems incorporating sensors, AI, and —such as 3D scanners and automated guidance—enabled precise auto-docking, reducing manual intervention and adapting to variables like type and conditions. The further accelerated innovations, with emphasis on contactless operations through sensor-driven and the use of antimicrobial, easily sanitizable materials in bridge interiors to minimize . As of 2025, over 35,000 jet bridges are installed worldwide, reflecting the demands of global recovery and expansion. The Asia-Pacific region exhibits the highest density, driven by rapid hub development at airports like Singapore , where passenger boarding bridge installations support surging traffic volumes.

Operation

Extension and Alignment

The extension and alignment process for a passenger boarding bridge (PBB) begins once the aircraft has parked at the gate. The operator first rotates the rotunda to orient the bridge toward the aircraft door, followed by the telescopic extension of the tunnel sections, which can reach up to approximately 10 meters to span the distance to the fuselage. Elevation adjustments are then made to match the aircraft door height, using either sensors for automatic leveling or manual input, ensuring the cab floor aligns with the doorsill. Finally, the canopy or bellows deploys to seal against the fuselage, creating a weatherproof connection. Alignment during docking relies on visual guides, such as painted indicators on the , combined with or ultrasonic sensors to achieve precise positioning. These aids enable docking within a tolerance of about 20-30 centimeters to prevent any contact that could damage the . The full extension and alignment typically complete in 1 to 2 minutes for standard bridges, allowing efficient boarding; the process reverses similarly for deboarding after passengers exit. PBBs incorporate environmental adaptations, such as structural design for wind resistance up to 70 miles per hour sustained (113 kilometers per hour) and automatic retraction mechanisms triggered in higher gusts exceeding 90 miles per hour (145 kilometers per hour) to ensure stability.

Drive Systems and Controls

Jet bridges employ a variety of power sources to facilitate their movement, including electro-hydraulic systems that use pumps to drive extension and mechanisms, electro-mechanical systems relying on electric motors for rotation and positioning, and fully electric configurations designed to minimize emissions by eliminating hydraulic fluids. Control interfaces for these systems typically integrate with centralized management platforms utilizing programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to enable remote operation and monitoring of bridge functions. Manual overrides are provided through controls located in the rotunda, allowing operators to intervene during alignment or in case of system anomalies. Automation levels in jet bridges range from semi-automated setups, where operators guide movements via interfaces, to fully automated systems such as Oshkosh AeroTech's JetDock (formerly associated with JBT Aerotech), which employs sensors and AI algorithms for precise aircraft door alignment and docking with minimal human input since its deployment in the 2020s. More recent innovations include China's deployment of the world's first fully autonomous passenger boarding bridge in July 2025, enabling unmanned docking in 45-48 seconds. These advancements support efficient extension steps by automating positioning without requiring manual adjustments. Energy specifications for jet bridges generally involve a 400V three-phase power supply in European installations to support operational demands, complemented by backup batteries that ensure functionality for retraction and lighting during power disruptions.

Safety and Maintenance

Safety Features and Protocols

Jet bridges incorporate several mechanical safeguards to mitigate risks during operation. Overload sensors and relief valves in hydraulic or pneumatic systems prevent excessive pressure buildup, ensuring the structure supports at least 700 pounds (318 kg) per person or without deflection exceeding 3 degrees. Anti-collision systems, including proximity sensors, , and limit switches, detect obstacles and halt movement to maintain a safe distance of at least 12 inches (30 cm) from surfaces during docking. retract buttons and mechanisms, such as pilot-operated check valves on lift cylinders and automatic brakes that engage during power failures, allow immediate halting or retraction if obstructions are detected. Operational protocols emphasize preventive measures to ensure safe use. Pre-use inspections verify the functionality of all , including auto-leveling mechanisms that adjust the bridge floor to the aircraft doorsill within 1.6 to 16 seconds, in accordance with SAE ARP1247 standards. Docking requires trained operators to confirm alignment, often using visual docking guidance , with competency verified through annual training and a permit restricting operation to qualified personnel. Jet bridges are designed per FAA standards to withstand sustained winds up to 70 mph (113 km/h) and gusts up to 90 mph (145 km/h). Operators should retract the bridge if winds exceed safe operational limits, especially when occupied, and maintain visual oversight of aircraft proximity to avoid hazards. In incident response, jet bridges feature auto-disconnect capabilities during power outages, with brakes locking the structure in place and tow lugs enabling manual emergency movement. Integrated elements include pull stations, 5-pound (2.3 kg) BC-rated extinguishers, and smoke detectors in the operator cabin, supporting rapid evacuation if needed. Operators remain present in the cabin during passenger boarding and disembarkation to facilitate immediate response. Incidents involving jet bridges remain relatively rare, accounting for a portion of ground damage events but with low overall frequency due to these safeguards; for instance, according to IATA's ground damage database (2017-2022), passenger boarding bridges along with belt-loaders, cargo-loaders, and passenger stairs contribute to about 40% of such incidents, primarily during docking. A notable case occurred in December 2018 at Baltimore-Washington International Airport, where a partial jet bridge failure during deplaning injured six passengers, highlighting the importance of alignment checks despite the rarity of such events. More recent examples include a collision between a Delta Boeing 767 and a jet bridge at Boston Logan International Airport in November 2024, and a jet bridge collapse during maintenance at Santa Barbara Airport in August 2025, which injured two staff members but no passengers.

Maintenance Requirements

Jet bridges, also known as passenger boarding bridges (PBBs), require structured preventive maintenance to ensure operational reliability, passenger safety, and extended . Routine schedules typically include daily visual inspections by personnel to check for visible damage such as cracks, loose bolts, , and alignment issues with seals and structural components. These daily checks also verify the functionality of controls, signaling devices, , and exits to confirm safe movement without hazards. Weekly or routine tasks often involve of moving parts like hydraulic systems, chains, cables, and operator controls, alongside cleaning of electrical panels and fittings to prevent buildup. More comprehensive preventive occurs every six months, encompassing of hydraulic or electro-mechanical systems, wheels, canopies, and rails, as recommended by manufacturers and FAA guidelines. Annual structural inspections follow manufacturer protocols, including power washing, touch-up , and detailed assessments of telescoping tunnels, handrails, and mechanisms to detect or defects. Ultrasonic testing for hidden in metal components is advised every five years, particularly in harsh environments. Common maintenance issues for jet bridges include corrosion accelerated by exposure to weather and de-icing chemicals used on airport aprons, which can degrade metal surfaces and structural integrity. on rollers and wheels, which support bridge movement, often necessitates replacement after 10-12 years of heavy use, contributing to overall system . Electrical faults in control systems, wiring, and lighting are frequent due to environmental exposure and mechanical stress, potentially leading to operational failures if not addressed through regular diagnostics. Annual maintenance costs per jet bridge unit typically range from $15,000 to $25,000 for a medium-sized installation, covering inspections, parts, and labor, with higher expenses for specialized tools like diagnostic software enabling through AI monitoring of system health. The typical lifecycle of a jet bridge is 20-25 years with proper upkeep, though it can extend to 30 years through periodic upgrades such as retrofitting hydraulic systems to more sustainable electro-mechanical or electric drives, which improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Benefits and Limitations

Operational Benefits

Jet bridges significantly enhance efficiency by streamlining passenger boarding and deplaning processes compared to alternatives like mobile or buses, which often involve exposure to the ramp environment and additional logistical steps. This results in shorter overall turnaround times for , with short-haul operations typically achieving completions in as little as 45 minutes, allowing for more frequent flight schedules. As of 2025, advancements in , such as autonomous docking systems that align bridges in 45-48 seconds, further reduce operation times and staffing needs. For passengers, jet bridges offer substantial advantages by providing a protected, enclosed pathway that shields individuals from adverse weather conditions such as , , extreme , or , thereby maintaining comfort and reducing disruptions. They also minimize physical strain by eliminating the need to navigate stairs or uneven surfaces, which is particularly beneficial for elderly travelers, those with mobility impairments, or families with luggage, while facilitating a smoother transition from terminal to the . Airlines and airports benefit from increased gate utilization enabled by these faster processes, as reduced turnaround durations allow a single gate to handle multiple flights daily without excessive downtime. Additionally, jet bridges lower the risk of injuries in ground handling by limiting and exposure to ramp hazards like vehicle traffic and , thereby decreasing associated claims and operational interruptions. From an environmental standpoint, jet bridges contribute to lower emissions by expediting deplaning and boarding in an enclosed space, which minimizes the time spend idling on the tarmac with engines running. This efficiency helps reduce fuel consumption and associated outputs during ground operations.

Drawbacks and Challenges

Jet bridges present several economic and operational drawbacks that can hinder their widespread implementation, particularly at resource-constrained facilities. Installation costs for a single unit typically range from $1 million to $2 million, encompassing , integration with terminal , and compliance with standards. These high upfront expenses, combined with ongoing demands for systems to maintain passenger comfort, often deter adoption at smaller regional airports where budgets and traffic volumes are limited. For instance, the substantial space requirements—often exceeding 180 meters of linear frontage for multiple gates—further restrict their feasibility in compact designs typical of low-volume facilities. Logistical challenges also complicate jet bridge operations, especially with larger aircraft. Gates designed for narrow-body planes may require costly modifications to accommodate wide-body models like the or , including adjustments to bridge height, length, and docking mechanisms to ensure proper alignment. Misalignment during extension can lead to aircraft door or fuselage damage, with individual incidents incurring repair costs from several thousand dollars to over $2 million, contributing to an industry-wide annual ground damage tally approaching $5 billion globally. Such issues not only delay turnarounds but also necessitate specialized training and alignment aids to mitigate risks. Additional hurdles include vulnerability to conditions, such as icing in cold climates, which can impair bridge mechanisms, seals, and safety features, leading to operational disruptions or the need for de-icing procedures. Space inefficiency in layouts exacerbates this, as fixed bridges demand dedicated areas that reduce overall flexibility compared to apron-based alternatives. Moreover, marketing often overstates their universality, overlooking limitations at remote stands where , configuration, or cost prohibit installation, forcing reliance on or buses instead. To address these challenges, particularly in developing regions, there has been a trend as of 2025 toward hybrid and electric mobile boarding stairs and , offering lower installation costs and greater adaptability for expanding airports in and without extensive fixed infrastructure.

Industry and Standards

Major Manufacturers

JBT AeroTech, based in the United States, is a leading manufacturer of passenger boarding bridges, holding a significant market position in through its innovative automated docking systems like JetDock, which enhance precision and in bridge alignment to . The company, formerly part of John Bean Technologies and now under , specializes in apron-drive bridges that have been installed at major airports worldwide, emphasizing reliability and reduced operational damage. ThyssenKrupp Airport Systems, headquartered in and now operating as TK Elevator Airport Solutions, focuses on sustainable electric passenger boarding bridges that minimize environmental impact compared to traditional hydraulic models, serving prominent European airports with tailored solutions. Their designs prioritize energy efficiency and adaptability for diverse types, contributing to over 5,000 global installations across more than 370 airports. Vataple Machinery (Kunshan) Co., Ltd., a Chinese firm established in 2004, provides cost-effective boarding bridges tailored for the Asian market, offering both hydraulic and electro-mechanical variants suitable for regional . These bridges have been deployed in various Asian countries and exported to , , and , supporting growing in emerging markets. Historically, Ogden's Jetway Systems, founded in 1958 in , , pioneered the apron-drive passenger boarding bridge, installing over 3,000 units and revolutionizing airport operations before being acquired and integrated into larger entities like in the 1990s. This early innovator laid the groundwork for modern designs, though the original company is now defunct as an independent entity. More recently, (MHI) has expanded its role in the with high-tech bridges featuring barrier-free floors and skid conveyors for improved . The global passenger boarding bridges market, valued at approximately USD 434 million in 2024, sees annual production in the hundreds of units, driven by airport expansions and is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 6-12% through 2032, with JBT dominating , ThyssenKrupp leading in , and Asian manufacturers like Vataple and CIMC gaining traction in their region.

Regulations and Standards

The (IATA) establishes standards for passenger boarding bridges (PBBs), also known as jet bridges, through its Airport Development Reference Manual (ADRM) and Airport Handling Manual (AHM), which provide guidance on dimensions, compatibility with aircraft interfaces, and overall planning to ensure seamless flow and interoperability. In the United States, the (FAA) outlines requirements in Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5360-13A, which addresses planning, including load-bearing capacities for PBB structures to support and loads while integrating with designs. Safety regulations emphasize structural and operational integrity, with European standards under EN 12312-4 specifying health, , functional, and performance requirements for PBBs, including hydraulic and electro-mechanical systems for elevation and alignment to prevent hazards during use. Mandatory certifications for fire resistance align with NFPA 415, which mandates protection against ramp fuel spill fires and requires loading walkways to maintain integrity for at least five minutes under fire exposure to facilitate safe evacuation. For structural integrity, FAA standards in AC 150/5220-21C require PBBs to withstand wind loads up to 90 mph (145 km/h) for three-second gusts, ensuring stability in adverse weather without compromising passenger . Installation guidelines focus on site-specific compatibility and accessibility, with IATA recommending minimum gate spacing of approximately 100 meters between stands for to accommodate wingspans, turning radii, and safe ground handling operations. Post-2020 updates incorporate enhanced accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and FAA AC 150/5360-14A, mandating wheelchair-compatible features such as level boarding or integrated lifts in jet bridges to ensure equitable access for passengers with disabilities, with recent implementations including automated wheelchair elevation systems at major U.S. airports. Global variations promote harmonization through the (ICAO) Annex 14, which sets aerodrome design standards that indirectly influence PBB integration by defining and stand configurations for consistent international operations. In regions like , stricter seismic standards under the Building Standard Law require PBBs and associated airport structures to withstand intense earthquakes, incorporating performance-based designs with isolation systems and reinforced foundations to exceed basic survival thresholds during events up to magnitude 7 or higher.

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  32. https://oshkoshaerotech.com/products-and-services/jetdock
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRiIDs_zzak
  34. http://alexo-llc.com/images/pdf-producti/apron-drive-bridge-pdf.pdf
  35. https://www.passero.com/files/EHNwSX/BQK%2520Addendum%2520No.%25203%25207.10.24_Responses.pdf
  36. https://www.tianyi-gse.com/passenger-boarding-bridge-features.html
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  38. https://flightsafety.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/FSF-2022-Safety-Report-FINAL.pdf
  39. https://www.wtae.com/article/baltimore-washington-airport-multiple-people-sent-to-hospitals-after-jet-bridge-issue/25707880
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  45. https://galvanizeit.org/hdg-in-use/transportation/airports
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  49. https://simpleflying.com/narrowbody-turnaround-times-time-differences-guide/
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  55. https://simpleflying.com/airlines-pay-ground-incidents/
  56. https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-service-stairs-market-114129
  57. https://airportsolutions.tkelevator.com/global-en/
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  66. https://skybrary.aero/sites/default/files/bookshelf/3090.pdf
  67. https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/150-5360-14A.pdf
  68. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-382/subpart-D
  69. https://www.realestate-tokyo.com/news/earthquake-resistance-of-buildings-in-japan/
  70. https://www.japan.go.jp/kizuna/2024/08/sustainable_terminal_haneda_airport.html
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