The days of hangar rash – when aircraft get damage from being manually moved around a crowded hangar – could be a thing of the past.
German company Alto General Aviation Services, exhibiting at EBACE for the first time, has a solution for problems caused by manual handling in the confined space of a typical hangar.
Called the Alto JETring, the product is Alto’s newest invention and in principle is similar to a train turntable. The JETring rotates a circular floor space of around 500m2 (5,380ft2) (30-32m in diameter) and provides space for four jets of Hawker 400 or Citation Bravo size.
“We have successfully introduced this system for GA and are bringing this concept to EBACE with jets in mind. We offer complete customisation and a turnkey installation,” says general manager, Peter Fries “it is the most efficient way to hangar aircraft.”
The system is of basic steel construction and is powered by six engines to ensure both smooth rotation and continuing operation should one engine fail. With all components being beneath the ground there are no barriers on the “deck”. It also features a two-gear automatic suspension system to provide smooth speed transitions and slow starts and stops. As an added option the discerning owner can choose to have tyre shoes added for precise aircraft positioning.
Aside from safer hangarage, it also allows for only one hangar door and does not necessitate the need for an apron outside. “It is also incredibly quick. Any aircraft parked on the ‘deck’ is relocated automatically into the door position in a maximum of 90s.
“The circular ring is generally 8.5m and runs around the concrete centre. It rotates on 18 castors and features a non-stick wooden surface impervious to all aircraft fluids. We are bringing our expertise to EBACE to demonstrate to business aviation users what we can do to solve any hangarage needs,” adds Fries. The company, based in Eltville, has developed a reputation in the GA market for modular hangars fitted with the latest technology for access and movements.
Source: Flight Daily News
