Touchdown in Ireland for aircraft industry pioneer

Telford-basedaviation manufacturer Aviramp has secured a new deal in the Republic of Ireland – and says it expects more to follow.

The company - a global leader in the manufacture of step-free aircraft boarding ramps – says a new solar-powered ramp supplied to Ireland West Airport is already proving a huge success.

Aviramp head of global sales Adam Corfield said feedback from the airport since the all-weather ramp was introduced had been fantastic.

“I flew out to the airport at Knock as they commissioned the ramp and the whole operation was a big success.

“They put the ramp on three flights all of which had multiple wheelchairs which would usually need a highlift. But, thanks to the Aviramp, the highlift was never used. Most of the passengers went up and down the ramp which made the turnarounds much quicker. 

“The airport is trying to move forward with solar powered ground handling equipment and their management team was more than impressed with what Aviramp provides.

“We’ve enjoyed tremendous growth around the world in the last 18 months: there are now more than 950 of our ramps in use across the globe and Ireland is certainly a market we will continue to develop. I look forward to many more deals in the country in the coming years.”

John McCarthy, head of airport operations & commercial services, Ireland West Airport, said: “We were delighted to work with the team at Aviramp in installing the new state-of-the-art Aviramp here at the airport. 

“This system provides many benefits for the airport, including improved operational efficiency, a better passenger experience, cost savings combined with a focus on sustainability which is hugely important. 

“The new boarding ramp is step-free and has a gentle slope, making it easier for everyone, especially people with reduced mobility, wheelchair users and parents with prams or young children. 

“By providing additional shelter for passengers when boarding the aircraft, it is another positive development to further enhance the facilities for passengers here at the airport.”

Aviramp’s health and safety manager Ross Underhill also travelled to Knock to oversee staff training in the use of the new ramp.