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Passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) play a critical role in modern air travel, connecting airport terminals directly to aircraft and ensuring passenger comfort and safety during boarding and disembarkation. This guide delves into the PBB market, exploring its growth trajectory, key players, innovations, and future prospects. The analysis includes detailed information about the top companies in the industry, their headquarters, recent financial performance, and market strategies.
Passenger Boarding Bridge Market, valued at USD 516 million in 2023, is expected to reach USD 917.2 million by 2032, growing at a 6.6% CAGR.Bottom of Form
How Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs) Work
Passenger boarding bridges (PBBs), also known as jet bridges or jetways, are enclosed, movable walkways that connect an airport terminal directly to an aircraft, allowing passengers to board and disembark safely and comfortably. The process of operating a PBB involves several steps to ensure smooth and efficient docking with the aircraft. Here’s a detailed explanation of how they work:
Positioning the PBB Near the Aircraft: - After the aircraft is parked at the gate and the engines are shut down, the ground crew positions the passenger boarding bridge near the aircraft. The PBB is usually attached to the terminal building, with a rotating section called a rotunda that allows for movement in different directions.
The bridge operator, located in the control cabin at the end of the PBB, uses a control panel to maneuver the bridge. The bridge can extend, retract, and pivot horizontally to align precisely with the aircraft door.
Adjusting the Height of the Bridge: - Depending on the aircraft type, the height of the PBB needs to be adjusted to match the height of the aircraft door. PBBs are equipped with hydraulic or electric lift systems that raise or lower the bridge to the correct height.
The bridge is carefully aligned to ensure the walkway is level with the aircraft entrance, providing a smooth transition for passengers and crew.
Docking the PBB to the Aircraft: -Once the PBB is positioned at the correct height, the operator slowly extends the bridge until the flexible canopy, also known as the "cabin," makes contact with the aircraft's fuselage. The canopy forms a tight seal around the door to protect passengers from the weather and provide a secure passage.
Many PBBs are equipped with advanced sensors and anti-collision technology to prevent any damage to the aircraft during docking. These systems alert the operator if the bridge is too close or if there is an obstruction.
Opening the Aircraft Door and Securing the Bridge: -After the PBB is securely docked, the aircraft door is opened, usually by airline staff or ground crew. The bridge operator ensures that the PBB is stable and in position before allowing passengers to enter or exit.
Some modern PBBs are equipped with automated docking systems that can detect the position of the aircraft door and automatically adjust the bridge to dock without manual intervention.
Passenger Boarding and Disembarking: - Passengers can now use the PBB to board or disembark the aircraft. The enclosed walkway protects them from weather conditions and provides a comfortable transition between the terminal and the aircraft.
Depending on the airport and the aircraft type, some boarding bridges are equipped with climate control systems to regulate the temperature within the bridge for passenger comfort.
Withdrawing the Bridge After Boarding or Disembarkation: -Once all passengers have boarded or exited the aircraft, the bridge operator reverses the docking process. The bridge is retracted from the aircraft, and the canopy is lifted away from the fuselage.
The PBB is then repositioned to its standby location or adjusted to service another aircraft.
Types of PBBs
- Apron-Drive Bridges: The most common type, which is mounted on wheels and can move freely on the apron to align with the aircraft.
- Fixed Bridges: These have a fixed position at the terminal and are used for specific aircraft positions. They are often supplemented with an adjustable tunnel section.
- Dual Bridges: Designed for large aircraft, allowing simultaneous boarding and disembarkation from two different doors.
- Over-the-Wing Bridges: Specifically designed to board aircraft from above the wing, often used with smaller regional jets.
Global Growth Insights unveils the top global Passenger Boarding Bridge Companies:
- JBT Aerotech
- Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- CAGR: 4.5%
- Revenue (Past Year): $1.8 billion (2023)
- Company Overview:
JBT Aerotech, a division of John Bean Technologies, is a global leader in airport ground support and equipment, including passenger boarding bridges. The company is recognized for its innovative designs and high-quality PBB solutions used by major airports worldwide. - Key Innovations:
- Advanced automated docking systems for faster and safer aircraft connections
- Integration of sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact
- Product Line Highlights:
- AeroTech Bridge: Offers compatibility with a wide range of aircraft types.
- JetDock: Features fully automated docking technology for efficient operations.
- ThyssenKrupp Access Solutions
- Headquarters: Essen, Germany
- CAGR: 3.9%
- Revenue (Past Year): €1.2 billion (2023)
- Company Overview:
ThyssenKrupp Access Solutions is a major player in the PBB industry, renowned for its engineering expertise and robust boarding bridge designs. They are known for delivering highly customized solutions tailored to the unique needs of different airports. - Key Innovations:
- Smart PBBs with automated docking and real-time monitoring features
- Development of energy-efficient systems to reduce power consumption
- Product Line Highlights:
- ApronDrive Series: Highly adaptable PBBs suitable for various aircraft.
- Glass-Walled Bridges: Known for their aesthetics and passenger comfort.
- Hyundai Rotem
- Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
- CAGR: 4.2%
- Revenue (Past Year): $3.5 billion
- Company Overview:
Hyundai Rotem is a key player in the infrastructure and heavy machinery sector, with a significant presence in the PBB market. The company's boarding bridges are utilized in several Asian and international airports, known for their durability and advanced technology. - Key Innovations:
- Anti-collision technology for safe and efficient aircraft docking
- Smart integration with airport systems for seamless operations
- Product Line Highlights:
- HRPBB Series: Offers automated docking and adjustable height features.
- Advanced Composite Bridges: Lightweight design for better performance.
- MHI (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
- Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
- CAGR: 4.0%
- Revenue (Past Year): $36 billion (2023)
- Company Overview:
MHI is a well-established global company involved in various sectors, including aerospace and airport infrastructure. Their passenger boarding bridges are known for high reliability, efficient operations, and the integration of smart technologies. - Key Innovations:
- Implementation of IoT technologies for predictive maintenance
- Modular designs for easy installation and customization
- Product Line Highlights:
- MHI PBB Series: Built for large international airports with heavy traffic.
- Compact Models: Designed for smaller airports or regional operations.
- FMT
- Headquarters: Trelleborg, Sweden
- CAGR: 5.1%
- Revenue (Past Year): $250 million
- Company Overview:
FMT is a key supplier of airport ground support equipment, with a specialized focus on passenger boarding bridges. Their bridges are recognized for reliability and advanced docking technology. - Key Innovations:
- Development of lightweight PBBs to reduce operational costs
- Enhanced automation features for faster turnaround times
- Product Line Highlights:
- FMT AirGate: Offers flexible configurations for different terminal layouts.
- SmartDock Series: Automated PBBs with smart sensors for precise aircraft alignment.
- ADELTE
- Headquarters: Barcelona, Spain
- CAGR: 6.0%
- Revenue (Past Year): €120 million
- Company Overview:
ADELTE specializes in the design and manufacturing of innovative passenger boarding solutions for the aviation industry. The company's PBBs are known for their modern design and technological advancements, particularly in passenger safety and comfort. - Key Innovations:
- Automated weather-resistant designs for outdoor operations
- Integration of sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact
- Product Line Highlights:
- ZEPHYR Bridge: Optimized for both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft.
- TEMPEST Series: Known for its flexibility in multi-level boarding operations.
- CEL
- Headquarters: China
- CAGR: 7.2%
- Revenue (Past Year): $200 million
- Company Overview:
CEL is one of China's major manufacturers of passenger boarding bridges, providing solutions primarily to Asian and Middle Eastern airports. The company has been expanding its market reach, focusing on high-quality and cost-effective PBB solutions. - Key Innovations:
- Advanced climate-control features within boarding bridges
- Robust designs for airports with challenging environmental conditions
- Product Line Highlights:
- CEL SmartGate: Features user-friendly interfaces and smart docking.
- EcoBridge Series: Designed for energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
- ShinMaywa
- Headquarters: Takarazuka, Japan
- CAGR: 4.3%
- Revenue (Past Year): $1.2 billion
- Company Overview:
ShinMaywa is a diversified manufacturing company with significant experience in the aviation sector. Their passenger boarding bridges are utilized in many Asian airports and are known for their high standards of quality and safety. - Key Innovations:
- Anti-slip technology for safe boarding in adverse weather conditions
- Noise-reduction features to enhance the passenger experience
- Product Line Highlights:
- ShinMaywa Flexible Series: Offers adjustable features for various aircraft.
- QuickDock Models: Engineered for rapid deployment and operations.
- CIMC
- Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
- CAGR: 7.5%
- Revenue (Past Year): $15 billion
- Company Overview:
CIMC (China International Marine Containers) has a strong presence in the global PBB market, offering solutions for a wide range of airport requirements. The company is known for leveraging its manufacturing expertise to deliver high-quality boarding bridges. - Key Innovations:
- Use of lightweight materials for lower energy consumption
- Smart control systems for efficient airport integration
- Product Line Highlights:
- CIMC Galaxy Series: Designed for high traffic airports.
- EcoJet Bridges: Focused on sustainability and environmental efficiency.
- Vataple
- Headquarters: China
- CAGR: 6.7%
- Revenue (Past Year): $110 million
- Company Overview:
Vataple is an emerging player in the PBB market, rapidly gaining traction in Asia and other regions. The company offers cost-effective yet technologically advanced boarding bridges, targeting airports with diverse requirements. - Key Innovations:
- Integration of solar panels for energy self-sufficiency
- Modular design for easy upgrades and maintenance
- Product Line Highlights:
- Vataple Pro Series: Suitable for both large and small airports.
- GreenBridge: Focused on eco-friendly solutions.
Conclusion – The Future of Passenger Boarding Bridges
The passenger boarding bridge market is set for steady growth, driven by increasing air traffic, airport expansions, and a focus on sustainability. Companies such as JBT Aerotech, ThyssenKrupp Access Solutions, Hyundai Rotem, and CIMC are leading the way in technological advancements, while newcomers like Vataple and CEL are gaining momentum with cost-effective solutions. The future will likely see more innovations focused on automation, energy efficiency, and passenger safety.