Schiphol and KLM have commissioned the world's first fully automatic double passenger bridge. With this innovation, a double passenger bridge is automatically connected within a minute. This contributes to a shorter time between the arrival and departure of the aircraft, in which every minute counts. The risk of malfunctions or damage due to operating errors is also reduced.

"I am proud that we are putting the world's first fully automatic double-equipped passenger bridge into use at Schiphol. With innovation, we are committed to improving quality, to make the airport as comfortable and efficient as possible for travelers and airlines“, Says Dick Benschop, CEO Royal Schiphol Group.

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“This fully automatic double-equipped passenger bridge at Schiphol is a wonderful innovation that can really make a difference. KLM is proud to have been able to contribute to this development. Because the bridge is connected within a minute, this means a shorter waiting time for our customers. In addition, this innovation contributes to our punctuality and the chance of malfunctions is smaller. These aspects ensure an even better customer experience ”, said René de Groot, KLM's Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer.

The fully automatic bridge will be used on Pier F by KLM and its Skyteam partners for intercontinental flights. The airport has developed the automated passenger bridge in collaboration with a bridge supplier CIMC-TianDa, the Dutch high-tech company Sioux-CCM and KLM.

The bridge is equipped with a smart technology, whereby cameras on the bridge recognize the door of the aircraft. The bridge can then connect itself to the door of the aircraft using sensors. A KLM employee activates the automatic passenger seat and supervises the process.

The bridge is equipped with smart technology, whereby cameras on the bridge recognize the aircraft door. With the help of sensors, the bridge can then connect itself up to the door of the aircraft. A KLM employee activates the automatic bridge and supervises the process.

Photo: KLM newsroom.

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