Tunnel System Solution

Conventional thinking restricts development of these vital supply systems to remain the same as decades before. However, with the advent of
new supercarriers such as the A380, ground handling equipment and procedures must be adapted to meet the challenge.

Cavotec Fladung, based in Mömbris Germany, has for many years being a leader in the design and manufacture of ground support equipment. Used at airports throughout the world, their systems are renowned for their quality and reliability, even in the most extreme operating environments. To meet the challenges of the future with regards to ground handling, the German company has developed a complete tunnel system, fitted with all necessary services such as 400 Hz, Pre-conditioned air and water.

The result of using a full scale GSS tunnel installation from Cavotec Fladung is that all essential ground support services are located very close to the aircraft and can be accessed through pop-up pits which rise up out of the tarmac. By using this approach the tarmac surrounding the parked aircraft is left completely free and unrestricted. Already in use at Dortmund Airport, the tunnel system can be adapted to suit the specific need of any type of airport and aircraft ranging from the smallest passenger jet right up to the enormous Airbus A380.

Another step in supplying ground support equipment for the new A380 was made recently in Dubai. Cavotec Fladung pit systems where installed at the first gate constructed for the A380 at Dubai International Airport. These specially designed pop-up systems are able to supply 4 x 90 kVA 400 Hz power and pre-conditioned air, even in the extreme heat of the UAE.

These pop-up systems are part of a larger order given to Cavotec Fladung by ETA on behalf of Emirates Engineering and it consists of 100 technical pits for the provision of services to Emirates Airline aircraft like the Airbus A380-340/600-340/500-330/200 and Boeing 777/300. The technical pits will supply 400 Hz (4 x 90 kVA) electrical power and pre-conditioned air. They will further be installed with electrical service pits containing 4 x 16 A – 1 x 32 A – 1 x 63 A and 1 x 200 A telephone/data/earthing cables fitted on a cable reel and water and compressed air outlets for tank ventilation purposes. The total of seven service hangars and one painting hangar are scheduled to become operational in early 2006.

To further enhance its service to existing and potential customers Cavotec Fladung has recently launched an online quotation website. Visitors can browse the complete range offered by the company and compose their enquiry in line with their specific needs. The website can be reached through www.quotemefladung.com or through the company's main website.