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Poma, incorporated as Pomagalski S.A., and sometimes referred to as the Poma Group, is a French company which manufactures cable-driven lift systems, including fixed and detachable chairlifts, gondola lifts, funiculars, aerial tramways, people movers, and surface lifts. Poma has installed about 7800 devices for 750 customers worldwide.[1]

Key Information

Poma's only major competitor is the Doppelmayr Garaventa Group which is based in Austria and Switzerland. Italy's Leitner Ropeways was historically another competitor until 2000 when Poma became part of Seeber Group (now HTI).[2] Poma and Leitner remain independent, but formed a strategic partnership which includes the combined purchase of raw materials and the formation of Leitner-Poma as a joint venture in North America.

The majority of Poma's lifts are used in ski areas in Europe, Asia, and North America (as Leitner-Poma), they have also installed installations in amusement parks, scenic locations, and industrial transportation applications.

In some areas Poma lift is used as a generic term for a platter lift, as this was the company's first and most popular product.

History

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A 1960s Poma double chairlift in Vermont, USA

In 1936, Jean Pomagalski (born 1905, Kraków) installed his first ski lift on the Eclose Trail in l'Alpe d'Huez in France. In 1947, he founded Pomagalski S.A. in Fontaine, France.[3] The first Poma single-seater chairlift was built in 1955 in Chamonix, France, using parts from drag lifts, and the first 2-seater chairlifts were built in 1958 in France and the United States. 1966-67 brought the first detachable gondolas built by Poma. The prototype gondola by Poma was the La Daille gondola at Val D'Isere and installed in 1966 but demolished and replaced in 2018. The corporate headquarters and the production shops are still in Fontaine, but since 1988 most of their management, design engineering, sales and service offices are in Voreppe, France. Poma currently employs approximately 750 people worldwide.

Early Poma chairlifts were installed at Squaw Valley, California for the 1960 Winter Olympics. Poma also supplied lifts for the Olympic Winter Games at Sarajevo, Yugoslavia in 1984, at Albertville, France in 1992, at Lillehammer, Norway in 1994 and has worked on the lifts for the 2014 Games at Sochi, Russia.

Products

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Circulating ropeways

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Fixed grip chairlifts

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A Poma fixed grip Alpha model chairlift at the Summit at Snoqualmie, Washington, USA
A Poma fixed grip Alpha terminal at White Hills Ski Resort near Clarenville, NL Canada

Poma's fixed grip chairlifts have proven popular throughout the world. Poma's first two-seater fixed grip chairlift was constructed in 1958. Following this, the three-seater chairlift was introduced in 1973. This was followed by four-seater, and more recently six seater fixed grip chairlifts.

The Alpha chairlift terminal was introduced in 1982 and continues to be popular today, however now they are currently only manufactured in North America. Prior to the Alpha terminal, Delta terminals were used. This type of terminal was such a great success that even presently a majority can still be seen operating worldwide. Both the Delta and Alpha chairlift terminals have the capability of being converted into detachable lifts later on, thus increasing the chairlift's capacity without constructing an entirely new installation.

Detachable chairlifts

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A Challenger model Poma detachable chairlift at Whistler, Canada
A Phoenix six-seater detachable telesiege in Saint-François-Longchamp, France.

Poma introduced detachable chairlifts in 1972 in Pralognan-la-Vanoise (Dou de l'Ecu) and Saint-Lary (Soum de Matte).[4] In 1982, Poma built a detachable chairlifts with an operating speed of 5 m/s - which, at the time, was the fastest in the world. In 1991, Poma unveiled their Omega detachable terminal(first Omega lift was the Loyes chairlift in Val D'Isere) which was more compact than previous terminals. The company built its first six-passenger detachable chairlift in 1993(Le Tour, Avoriaz) and its first eight-passenger lift was constructed in Méribel, France in the year 2000. Also in 2000, the company replaced the Omega line of detachable terminals with the new Phoenix model. In addition, In 2005, Poma also have now introduced the Multix terminals in their detachable chairlifts(which are actually Leitner designs, with the only difference being the station's facade and, before the 2020s, the main bull/pulleywheels), while new North American lifts continue to feature the Omega terminal.

Gondola lifts

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Eight-seater gondola, built in 2001, in Saint-Martin de Belleville, Savoie, France.

Poma built its first detachable gondolas in Val d'Isere and Queenstown (New Zealand) in 1966, and then, its first automatic gondolas in Chalmazel, Les Menuires (France) in 1967.[4] It built the world's first six-passenger monocable gondola in 1973(the Madrid gondola lift and the former Grande Rochette gondola lift in La Plagne were built earlier, but were bicable lifts), also in France in Villard-de-Lans. The world's first ten-passenger gondola was built by the company in 1984(La Patinoire in La Clusaz), followed by the world's first 16-passenger version in 1998 in Les Angles(Les Pelerins), in the French Pyrenees.

Funitels

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The company has built three funitels to date: the Funitel du Grand Fond, a detachable funitel built in 2001, the Funitel du Bouquetin, a fixed grip jig-back funitel built in 2003 (both located at Val Thorens in France) and the more recent Funitel de la Perdrix in Super-Besse, France, which was built in 2008 and is the first Funitel to feature the shared mechanics of Leitner and Poma.

Hybrid lifts

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Telemix is Poma's brand name for a detachable lift that is equipped with both gondola cabins and chairs. The terminal stations are the same as the company's detachable gondolas and chairlifts. These are common in the French resort of Alpe d'Huez.

Surface lifts

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Poma's first model was the Pomalift, a surface lift with a disk that skiers straddle. It has the ability to travel at high speeds because the platters are detachable from the haul rope, and because the perch is telescopic and has a pneumatic system which allows for a smooth and progressive departure. They are still sold today along with T-Bars and fixed grip platters.

Reversible aerial tramways

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Poma has built a number of large aerial tramways. In 2003, Poma built the world's largest reversible ropeway to connect the French resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne, the Vanoise Express. The double decker tramway can hold up to 200 people at a time in each cabin. In 2010, Poma worked on the replacement of the Roosevelt Island Tramway in New York, using a design based mechanically on the Vanoise Express.

Funiculars and people movers

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Poma has built numerous funiculars which are cable driven railways that can climb steep pitches. Poma also had a partnership with Otis Elevator, known as "Poma-Otis Transportation Systems", to build Automated People Movers.

[edit]
  • 'Roc d'Orsay' 8-seater gondola constructed in 2006, in Villars, Switzerland.
    'Roc d'Orsay' 8-seater gondola constructed in 2006, in Villars, Switzerland.
  • Telemix in Donovaly, Slovakia
    Telemix in Donovaly, Slovakia
  • Fixed-grip chairlift, with Delta terminal built in 1986 in Le Lioran, France.
    Fixed-grip chairlift, with Delta terminal built in 1986 in Le Lioran, France.
  • Maokong Gondola - corner two station and National Highway No. 3, in Taiwan.
    Maokong Gondola - corner two station and National Highway No. 3, in Taiwan.
  • Skyride, a 10 seater detachable gondola lift built in 1987 at Alton Towers, UK.
    Skyride, a 10 seater detachable gondola lift built in 1987 at Alton Towers, UK.

Subsidiaries

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Leitner-Poma
Leitner-Poma of America, Inc. builds lifts in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Leitner-Poma offers the full line of Poma products and manufactures most of the components at its headquarters in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Poma came to North America in the early 1950s under the name of Pomalift, Inc., installing its first lift in Canada in 1952 and in the US in 1953.[5] Pomalift Inc. changed its name to Poma of America in 1981 with the establishment of its office and factory at Grand Junction, Colorado. Since 1989, all detachable chairs for North America, New Zealand, and Australia have been designed and built in Colorado.[6] In September 2001, the merger of Poma and Leitner's North American operations was announced forming Leitner-Poma of America.[6]
Sigma Cabins
Founded in 1961 and incorporated as Sigma Composite SA,[7][8] this company is based in Veyrins, Isère, France, and manufactures cabins for HTI Group's ropeways and people movers. The company also produces cabins for other applications such as ferris wheels.[9] Its competitors are Doppelmayr subsidiary CWA; Bartholet subsidiary Gangloff; and Carvatech.
Skirail
Skirail designs and builds inclined lifts, chairlifts, funicular railways and Cyclocables.[10] The company was founded in 1981,[11] and was acquired by Poma in 1987.[12] Despite the takeover, Skirail continued to manufacture their own chairlifts until 2011(their last lift was the Valbelle-Razis chairlift in Risoul, France).
Baco
Baco AG was founded in 1950, and was acquired by Poma[13] in 1981. Baco ceased manufacturing ropeways, however the company is still active, operating for Poma and Leitner Ropeways in Switzerland.[14]
Comag
Comag SAS[15] is based in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Savoie, France, and operates as Poma's civil engineering and mountain installations company.[16]
SACMI
Société Savoyarde de Construction et de Matériel Industriel, known as SACMI, was founded in 1960,[17] and was later acquired by Poma. The company is located in Gilly-sur-Isère, France, and manufactures mechanically welded components and other pre-assembled parts for Poma's ropeways.[18][19]
Semer
Semer SA[20] is based in le Fayet, Haute-Savoie, France, it is responsible for the automation and electronics used in Poma Group's products.[21]

There is also a network of overseas subsidiaries such as Leitner Poma Japan and Poma Beijing Ropeways.[22]

In 1975 a License Agreement for production of ropeway systems designed for the passenger transport took place between Pomagalski s. a. and TPMP Kežmarok (then Czechoslovakia, now Slovakia). Based on the License Agreement production of skilifts named "Tatrapoma" has commenced. The agreement ended in 1991, but TPMP Kežmarok continued to manufacture ski lifts ever since (now as Tatralift).[23]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Poma

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Poma Group is a French multinational company specializing in the design, manufacture, and installation of cable-driven transport systems, including ropeways, chairlifts, gondola lifts, funiculars, and urban transit solutions.[1] Founded in 1946 by Jean Pomagalski, the company originated with innovative ski lift technology in the French Alps, installing its first surface lift in 1936 at Alpe d'Huez.[1] Today, Poma operates as a global leader in sustainable mobility, with over 8,000 installations across more than 30 countries, employing approximately 1,500 people and generating €432 million in revenue as of 2022.[1] Its systems serve mountain resorts, urban environments, and industrial applications, emphasizing environmental efficiency and innovation, with 4% of revenue invested in research and development.[1]

History

Founding and Early Innovations

POMA, originally known as Pomagalski, was founded in 1946 by Jean Pomagalski, a Polish-born engineer who had immigrated to France as a child and developed an early interest in mechanical engineering after studying at the Vaucanson vocational school in Grenoble. Born in 1905, Pomagalski began experimenting with cable transport systems in the 1920s, constructing his first aerial conveyor for construction materials in 1927 at a site in Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet. His breakthrough came in the realm of skiing infrastructure, where the growing popularity of the sport in the French Alps demanded reliable uphill transport solutions.[1][2] The company's foundational innovation was the detachable surface lift, often called the "poma-lift," which revolutionized ski resort accessibility. In 1936, Pomagalski installed the world's first such lift at L’Eclose on Alpe d’Huez, a 215-meter installation spanning 64 meters of elevation gain, powered by a Ford engine and constructed using telegraph poles and a truck deck. This prototype addressed key limitations of fixed-grip tows by allowing skiers to detach at the top, reducing strain and improving efficiency. Pomagalski secured a patent for a progressive starting device on March 6, 1936, enabling smoother acceleration for cable-driven loads, which became integral to the system's design. By 1944, he patented a bushing fastener with over-centre locking for detachable tows, a mechanism that remains in use today for its reliability and safety. These early inventions laid the groundwork for POMA's expertise in ropeway transport, shifting the focus from rudimentary drags to engineered systems that supported the post-World War II boom in recreational skiing across Europe.[3][2][4] Following the company's official establishment in 1946, operations formalized with the opening of a small factory in Fontaine, Isère, in 1953, employing about 15 workers to produce surface lift kits. This period marked POMA's transition from individual inventions to scalable manufacturing, with the firm capitalizing on its patented technologies to meet demand in the Alps. A pivotal advancement came in 1955 with the introduction of chairlifts, including the first single-seater model installed at Brévents in the Chamonix region, which utilized adapted drag lift components for seated transport. This innovation expanded uphill capacity and comfort, facilitating longer runs and attracting broader audiences to ski resorts. By 1958, POMA had constructed a larger factory and begun exporting to North America, installing its first chairlifts in Colorado, Vermont, and Alaska, signaling the start of international growth driven by these core mechanical and fastening innovations.[3][1]

Expansion and Major Milestones

Following its founding in 1946, Poma rapidly expanded its operations beyond France, establishing an international footprint in the late 1950s. In 1958, the company installed its first chairlifts in the United States, including sites in Colorado, Vermont, and Alaska, coinciding with preparations for the Grenoble Winter Olympics that prompted the construction of a new factory to boost production capacity.[3] This marked the beginning of Poma's penetration into the North American market, where demand for ski infrastructure was growing. By the early 1960s, Poma extended its reach to Latin America, installing systems in Andean ski areas starting in the 1960s, laying the groundwork for future urban transport projects in the region.[3] A pivotal milestone came in 1966 with the delivery of Poma's first gondola systems, installed simultaneously in Queenstown, New Zealand, and Val d'Isère, France, which broadened the company's offerings beyond surface and chairlifts to enclosed cabins for enhanced passenger comfort and capacity.[5] Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Poma solidified its global stature through high-profile Olympic installations, including chairlifts for the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Games, the 1992 Albertville Games, and the 1994 Lillehammer Games, showcasing technological advancements like synchronized cabin operations capable of transporting 2,000 people per hour.[6] Strategic acquisitions further fueled growth, such as the 1987 purchase of Skirail to enhance surface lift capabilities and a 1996 partnership with Otis Elevator Company to integrate expertise in vertical transportation.[3] The turn of the millennium brought significant corporate restructuring and diversification. In 2000, the Seeber Group's acquisition of Poma led to the merger of its North American operations with Leitner, forming Leitner-Poma of America, which strengthened manufacturing and sales in the U.S. with facilities in Grand Junction, Colorado.[3] A transformative expansion into urban mobility occurred in 2004, when Poma constructed the world's first detachable monocable gondola system for public transit in Medellín, Colombia—the Metrocable Line K—which integrated with the city's metro and served underserved hillside communities, transporting up to 30,000 passengers daily.[7] This project, expanded with additional lines in 2008 and beyond, earned Medellín recognition as the world's most innovative city in 2013.[8] In recent years, Poma has continued to scale its infrastructure and commitments. The 2021 expansion of its Gilly-sur-Isère manufacturing site in France added 6,000 square meters of space and increased capacity by 30%, supporting larger-scale projects worldwide.[3] Notable achievements include the 2016 construction of the 162-meter-high British Airways i360 observation tower in Brighton, UK—the world’s slimmest—featuring a custom observation pod.[9] In 2019, Poma launched its foundation to fund global mobility initiatives, underscoring a shift toward sustainable and social impact-driven expansion.[8] As of 2025, Poma operates in 90 countries, with a focus on eco-friendly ropeway solutions for mountains, cities, and industry.[10]

Corporate Structure

Subsidiaries and Affiliates

Poma operates through a network of subsidiaries and affiliates that support its global operations in cable transport systems, spanning manufacturing, assembly, sales, and maintenance across multiple continents. These entities enable localized expertise and service delivery, particularly in key markets for ski lifts, urban transport, and tourism infrastructure.[11] In Europe, several French-based subsidiaries handle specialized production and support functions. COMAG, located in the Rhône-Alpes region, specializes in the assembly and maintenance of ropeway transport systems. SACMI, also in Rhône-Alpes and operational since 1960, focuses on mechanical welding, machining, and assembly for ropeway components. SEMER, another Rhône-Alpes entity, engineers and manufactures electrical equipment and automation systems for ropeways. SIGMA, similarly based in Rhône-Alpes, designs and produces cabins for passenger transport, including customized projects for various installations. BACO, operating from Switzerland, markets and manufactures Poma installations tailored for ski resorts and tourist sites.[11] Poma maintains dedicated subsidiaries in Asia to facilitate regional expansion and service. POMA Beijing in China manages sales, administration, assembly, and after-sales support for Poma systems. POMA Korea in South Korea provides dedicated customer service for ropeway operations. POMA Vietnam supports service activities and new tourism projects throughout East Asia.[11] In the Americas and other regions, affiliates address market-specific needs. Leitner-Poma of America (LPOA), a joint venture with Leitner AG under the HTI Group, constructs ropeway installations across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, leveraging combined engineering expertise. POMA Colombia consolidates local presence to offer solutions for Colombian and broader Latin American customers. In Africa, POMA Egypt provides technical support for development in North Africa and the Middle East, while ETAC in Algeria manages feasibility studies, construction, operation, and maintenance of cable transport systems.[11][12]

Manufacturing and Global Operations

Poma's manufacturing operations are centered in France, with the majority of its rope transport systems—approximately 80%—produced domestically to emphasize quality control and sustainability.[13] The company maintains four key industrial subsidiaries in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region: SACMI for mechanical welding, machining, installation, and assembly; SEMER for engineering and manufacturing electrical equipment and automation; SIGMA for designing and producing passenger cabins; and COMAG for assembling and maintaining ropeway systems.[11] These facilities benefit from a strategic Alpine location that supports efficient logistics and supply chains for global projects.[13] A flagship production site opened in Gilly-sur-Isère, Savoie, in 2017, consolidating manufacturing on a 7-hectare campus with 6,000 square meters of dedicated buildings added by 2020.[13] This site integrates advanced digital technologies and has received over €40 million in investments across Poma's French operations over the past decade, spanning a total area of 225,000 square meters.[13] The "Made in France" model prioritizes local production in the Rhône-Alpes basin to minimize carbon emissions while enabling high-performance, long-lasting equipment designed for up to 50 years of service.[14][13] Globally, Poma extends its operations through a network of subsidiaries, industrial sites, sales offices, and service centers present in 90 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and Oceania.[10] Key subsidiaries include Leitner-Poma of America for installations in the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand; POMA Beijing in China for sales, assembly, and after-sales service; POMA Korea in South Korea for customer support; and POMA Colombia for comprehensive solutions in Latin America, alongside POMA do Brasil.[11] Additional outposts operate in Switzerland (BACO AG for ski and tourism markets), Egypt (as a competence center for North Africa and the Middle East), Vietnam (for East Asian services and tourism projects), and Algeria (ETAC for studies, construction, and maintenance). In 2024, LPOA opened its largest U.S. manufacturing facility in Tooele, Utah, a 130,000-square-foot site supporting regional production of ski lifts.[11][15] This decentralized structure facilitates proximity to customers, local job creation, and adaptation of French-engineered technologies to regional needs, such as urban transport systems in Medellín, Colombia, and emerging markets in South America and Africa.[11][14]

Products

Circulating Ropeways

Circulating ropeways, also known as detachable ropeway systems, represent a core product line of Poma, designed for continuous operation where passenger carriers detach from the haul rope at stations for low-speed loading and unloading before reattaching for high-speed travel along the line. These systems provide efficient, weather-resistant transport solutions, particularly in mountainous terrains, with capacities ranging from 2,000 to over 4,500 passengers per hour depending on configuration. Unlike fixed-grip systems, detachable designs achieve line speeds of 5 to 7 m/s while maintaining station speeds below 0.3 m/s, enhancing comfort and throughput for ski resorts and tourism applications.[16][17] Poma's detachable gondola lifts form a primary category within circulating ropeways, featuring enclosed cabins such as the Diamond, Diamond EVO, and Symphony models, which accommodate 8 to 12 passengers and include options for ventilation, heating, and panoramic views. These lifts are engineered for robustness in extreme conditions, including high altitudes above 3,000 m and strong winds, with innovations like the DirectDrive® motor that reduces energy consumption and noise through gearless operation. Additional safety features include double haul ropes for redundancy and silentbloc roller batteries with a 30-year lifespan, eliminating the need for lubrication. Technical enhancements, such as ultra-compact stations and high-performance rollers offering 1.5 times the efficiency of traditional designs, minimize infrastructure footprints and maintenance costs. Representative installations include the Grangettes gondola in Courchevel, France, linking villages with extended evening operations until 11 p.m., and the La Daille lift in Val d'Isère, France, equipped with 57 Symphony 10-seater cabins for year-round access.[16][18][19] Detachable chairlifts, another key variant, offer open-air seating for 4 to 8 passengers, including bubble-enclosed options for weather protection, and share core technologies with gondolas such as DirectDrive® and track cable storage for harsh climates. These systems excel in high-throughput ski area transport, with loading speeds around 0.8 m/s and the ability to navigate steep terrains up to 60% gradient. Poma's LCI roller batteries and multi-functional line structures—integrating surveillance, lighting, and wind monitoring—further enhance reliability and operational efficiency. Notable examples include the American Flyer at Copper Mountain, USA, the longest bubble chairlift globally at 3.0 km with 6-seater capacity, and the Northwoods Express at Vail Resort, USA, a 6-seater lift serving 3,000 passengers per hour. Sustainability is prioritized through reduced energy use and recyclable materials in carrier construction.[17][20][21] For longer spans and higher wind resistance, Poma's 2S (bicable) and 3S (tricable) gondola lifts combine detachable circulation with multiple support ropes, enabling speeds over 8 m/s and spans up to 2 km between towers. The 3S configuration, using one haul rope and two track ropes, supports larger 30-passenger Symphony cabins and is ideal for crossing valleys or urban-mountain interfaces. Innovations like built-in recovery systems ensure carriers return to stations during evacuations, while advanced line structures incorporate environmental sensors for real-time monitoring. These lifts achieve capacities up to 6,000 passengers per hour with lower visual and ecological impact. Exemplary projects include the 3S Jandri at Les Deux Alpes, France, a two-section system totaling 6.4 km connecting a glacier at 3,200 m elevation (completed 2024), and the Prodains Express in Avoriaz, France, an eco-responsible link emphasizing reduced road traffic. Energy efficiency is bolstered by DirectDrive® in multi-drive setups, cutting operational costs by up to 20%.[22][23][24]

Reversible Aerial Tramways

Reversible aerial tramways, also known as jig-back or shuttle systems, are a core product in POMA's portfolio of cable transport solutions, designed for efficient passenger movement over challenging terrains such as mountains, rivers, or urban obstacles. These systems feature one or two cabins that travel back and forth along independent tracks, propelled by hauling ropes, allowing for high-speed transit while ensuring full availability through dual-loop configurations that enable maintenance on one line without halting service. POMA's reversible tramways emphasize safety with built-in recovery systems, hydraulic motors, and advanced monitoring like wind sensors and video surveillance, achieving availability rates up to 99.9% even in adverse weather.[25][26] Key features include speeds reaching 12 m/s, enabling coverage of 1 km in under three minutes, and cabin capacities from 50 to 200 passengers, with designs optimized for comfort such as large windows and stable wide-track carriages to counter wind gusts. Unlike circulating ropeways, reversible systems slow or stop at stations for seamless boarding and alighting, making them ideal for high-volume routes where reliability and minimal infrastructure are priorities. POMA integrates these tramways into both mountain and urban environments, often without intermediate towers to blend with natural landscapes, and incorporates rescue mechanisms that safely return cabins to stations during emergencies.[25][26][27] In mountain applications, POMA's reversible aerial tramways facilitate access to ski resorts and high-altitude sites, combining the spaciousness of traditional systems with operational flexibility. The Vanoise Express, completed in 2003, exemplifies this with its 1,824 m span connecting Les Arcs and La Plagne in France, featuring duplex cabins holding 200 passengers each for a total capacity of 2,000 people per hour at 12.5 m/s, and a transparent glass floor for scenic views; it held the record for the world's largest cabin until 2016. Another notable installation is the Bastille aerial ropeway in Grenoble, France, operational since 1934 and modernized by POMA in 1976, which spans 700 m with a 260 m elevation gain, carrying 720 passengers per hour in spherical "bubble" cabins at 6 m/s, serving as a tourist attraction with approximately 300,000 annual passengers (as of 2015).[28][29] For urban transport, POMA's reversible tramways provide congestion-free links across barriers like rivers or valleys, with the 2010 AirTram on Roosevelt Island in New York City as a prime example: this 960 m bi-cable system connects to Manhattan at 5.3 m/s, transporting 1,500 passengers per hour in 110-seat cabins across two independent lines for uninterrupted service, featuring wide-track stability and panoramic views of the skyline. These installations highlight POMA's focus on sustainable, low-impact mobility, with reversible designs allowing easy dismantling and relocation to adapt to evolving urban needs.[27][26]

Funiculars and Urban Transport Systems

Poma has developed funicular railway systems as a key component of its ground-based transport offerings, particularly suited for urban, touristic, and industrial applications where steep inclines and challenging terrains are common. These reversible, rope-pulled systems utilize mono-cable technology to connect stations efficiently, accommodating slopes from 0° to 50° and allowing for both straight and curved tracks up to 5,000 meters in length. With maximum speeds reaching 14 m/s and carrier capacities of up to 500 passengers, funiculars can achieve system capacities of 10,000 passengers per hour per direction in dual-lane configurations, providing quiet, panoramic, and accessible transport that integrates automation for enhanced operational efficiency.[30] In urban contexts, Poma's funiculars address mobility challenges by offering flexible routing around obstacles and minimal land footprint, making them ideal for high-traffic tourist sites or industrial zones in variable climates. Notable implementations include the renovation of the Fourvière Funicular in Lyon, France, in 2018, which improved capacity and comfort for urban commuters accessing the historic basilica, and the Enshi Grand Canyon Funicular in China, completed in 2020, spanning 1,000 meters with a 100 m elevation gain (approximately 5.7° incline) to transport visitors through rugged landscapes. These projects highlight Poma's expertise in retrofitting existing infrastructure while ensuring environmental adaptability and user accessibility.[30][31][32] Beyond funiculars, Poma's urban transport systems encompass aerial ropeways, such as gondola lifts under the POMA AIRWAY brand, designed to alleviate congestion in densely populated areas by operating overhead and bypassing ground-level barriers like rivers, highways, or buildings. These systems, including monocable detachable gondolas and multi-rope configurations (2S and 3S), support capacities up to 6,000 passengers per hour, with 100% electric propulsion via DirectDrive® technology for low energy consumption and near-silent operation. They promote multimodal integration with buses, trams, and metros, ensuring reliable journey times and accessibility for all users, including those with reduced mobility, while requiring minimal infrastructure investment compared to traditional rail.[33] Poma's urban ropeways emphasize sustainability and efficiency, serving as eco-friendly solutions for growing passenger flows in cities facing rapid urbanization. For instance, the P Line Metrocable in Medellín, Colombia (operational since 2021), connects informal hillside neighborhoods to the city center as part of the broader Metrocable network (initial line opened 2004), integrating with the existing metro and supporting inclusive mobility by linking peri-urban areas. Similarly, the AirTram project on Roosevelt Island in New York, developed in partnership, replaces an aging aerial tramway to enhance commuter access across the East River with modern, high-capacity cabins. These initiatives demonstrate how Poma's systems foster inclusive urban mobility by supporting last-mile connectivity.[33][34][27]

Innovations and Sustainability

Technological Advancements

POMA has pioneered numerous technological advancements in ropeway systems over its 80-year history, beginning with the invention of the detachable surface lift in 1936 by founder Jean Pomagalski, which revolutionized ski transport by allowing carriers to detach from the cable for faster loading and unloading.[35] The company has since developed a range of advanced cable transport solutions, including monocable, bicable (2S), and tricable (3S) systems, featuring innovations such as next-generation roller batteries and high-performance detachable grips that enhance efficiency and reliability.[35] With over 120 active patents worldwide, POMA invests more than €6 million annually in research and development, supported by a team of 60 engineers, resulting in approximately six new product or service innovations each year.[35] A key focus of POMA's advancements is safety and predictive maintenance, achieved through tools like COPILOT for technical documentation and real-time monitoring of component wear, and UPILOT® for operator training simulations that reduce downtime and improve system availability.[35] The DirectDrive® motor technology represents a significant breakthrough, eliminating the need for gearboxes and oil, while reducing energy consumption by 8% and operational noise by 15 dB, thereby enhancing passenger comfort and environmental performance.[36] Additionally, innovations in silent cables with plastic fins minimize vibrations, and the SmartBOARD control system, equipped with dual touch-screens, streamlines operator interfaces for more intuitive management.[35] In terms of sustainability, POMA's designs achieve up to 86% material recyclability and incorporate energy recovery systems that capture power from descending carriers to offset operational needs.[36] Integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels on installations, combined with AI-driven optimization using big data, further reduces the carbon footprint of ropeway operations.[35] These efforts have earned recognition, including the 2016 Hermès Innovation Award for urban ropeway transport solutions that promote eco-friendly mobility.[35] POMA's modular components and certifications, including ISO 9001 since 1989, ISO 14001 since 2009, and ISO 45001 since 2020, ensure these advancements meet global standards for quality, environmental management, and occupational health.[36]

Environmental and Social Commitments

Poma has structured its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) approach since 2019, aligning it with the ISO 26000 standard and the United Nations Global Compact to address environmental, social, and societal issues, while reflecting the company's family governance values.[37] This framework emphasizes sustainable mobility solutions, stakeholder engagement, and ethical practices across its operations. In environmental commitments, Poma prioritizes eco-responsible practices, including waste reduction and recycling programs, such as for computer equipment, and has maintained ISO 14001 certification for environmental management since 2009.[37] Its urban mobility systems are designed to be 100% electric and carbon-free, reducing urban pollution in line with France's Grenelle de l’Environnement objectives.[37] In mountain regions, ropeway installations help revitalize local economies while cutting greenhouse gas emissions by up to 57% compared to road travel, according to a 2010 study by ANMSM and ADEME.[37] Innovations focus on energy optimization, noise and visual pollution minimization, and landscape integration, supported by an eco-construction charter that ensures site safety and environmental respect.[37] Through its Colombian subsidiary, Poma commits to combating climate change under SDG 13 of the UN Global Compact, participating in local environmental actions near ropeway facilities.[38] On the social front, Poma invests in human capital development, providing over 7,000 hours of training annually via its UPILOT® tool to foster skills transfer and inclusion for disabled employees and youth.[37] The company promotes local development through "Made in France" initiatives with its subsidiaries, supporting regional employment and community ties, such as dialogue with operators in projects like Medellin's Metrocable.[37] Established in 2019, the Poma Foundation advances social commitments by funding mobility-related projects in sport, disability, solidarity, and environmental areas, supporting 23 initiatives and engaging 78 employees as of 2023 through financial aid, skills sponsorship, and an annual Day of Solidarity Action.[39] In Colombia, Poma aligns with UN SDGs 8, 11, and 17 by promoting decent work, sustainable cities, and global partnerships, earning Fenalco certification for its social responsibility efforts since 2014.[38] Leitner-Poma of America, a key affiliate, furthers these goals by sponsoring Protect Our Winters to advocate for climate action in outdoor sports and hiring a sustainability coordinator to reduce its carbon footprint, including through EV charging stations and renewable energy installations at facilities.[40] Ethical commitments include an anti-corruption code, a whistleblowing system, and mandatory e-learning for employees to uphold integrity in operations.[37] Overall, these efforts integrate environmental protection with social impact, positioning Poma as a leader in sustainable transport infrastructure.

References

  1. Guaman Poma and The First New Chronicle and Good Government
  2. How an Incan Nobleman Contested Spanish History - JSTOR Daily
  3. The digital edition of Guaman Poma
  4. overview POMA Group - Ropeway and Cable Transport
  5. Portrait of Jean Pomagalski - The beginning of POMA Group
  6. The history of POMA
  7. New Book Chronicles 80 Years of Innovation at Poma - Lift Blog
  8. Historical Timeline | Leitner-Poma of America
  9. Medellin, Colombia. Pioneer city of urban cable transportation.
  10. [PDF] POMA, WORLD LEADER in cable transportation
  11. None
  12. About Leitner-Poma of America
  13. Industrial assets POMA • Equipment made in France
  14. Mobility and sustainable tourism: how POMA is reinventing the ...
  15. POMA, world leader in cable, air and ground transport - Homepage
  16. Detachable gondola lift POMA • Comfort in the mountains
  17. Detachable chairlift POMA • From high performance to high altitude
  18. https://www.poma.net/en/work/grangettes-gondola-lift/
  19. https://www.poma.net/en/work/la-daille-gondola-lift/
  20. https://www.poma.net/en/work/the-american-flyer-bubble-chairlift/
  21. https://www.poma.net/en/work/northwoods-express-detachable-chair-lift-colorado/
  22. 2S 3S gondola lift POMA • high-performance ropeways
  23. 3S Jandri detachable gondola lift - POMA
  24. Prodains Express Avoriaz • 3S aerial ropeway - POMA
  25. Aerial Tramway POMA unique travel experience up to snowy peaks
  26. Urban Aerial Tramway POMA • Availability and big spans
  27. Airtram Roosevelt Island - Aerial Tramway - New York - POMA
  28. Vanoise Express Aerial Tramway POMA connect the two valleys !
  29. The Bastille aerial ropeway in Grenoble is an emblematic attraction
  30. Funicular for urban, touristic and industrial application - POMA
  31. https://www.poma.net/en/work/renovation-of-the-fourviere-funicular-railway/
  32. https://www.poma.net/en/work/enshi-grand-canyon-funicular/
  33. Urban Mobility - Ropeway Transport by POMA as a solution
  34. Line P - Medellin's Metro - POMA
  35. Innovation POMA • 80 years of product research and development
  36. Technology POMA • 80 years of development in ropeway solutions
  37. CSR - Environment & Commitment - POMA committed group
  38. POMA Colombia • CSR Commitment - POMA POMA Colombia CSR
  39. Foundation POMA, discover the mission
  40. Leitner-Poma joins in efforts to sustain outdoors sports industry
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