The first folding bellow at a German airport was put into operation exactly 55 years ago. The patented folding bellow solutions by the HÜBNER Group have been ensuring safe and comfortable transitions between airport terminals and aircraft worldwide via passenger boarding bridges since 1970.
With a unique combination of a folding bellow and flexible sliding floor, the HÜBNER Group has established itself as a technology leader in bridgehead systems for passenger boarding bridges. „Our safe and flexible passenger bridge-to-aircraft interface systems ensure that passengers can comfortably and safely move from the gangway to the aircraft“, explains Dirk Keßler, Head of Airport Technology at the HÜBNER Group. The patented kinematics enable optimal adaptation to different aircraft contours – from small planes with strong curvature to wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A380.
More than 8,000 Systems – From Frankfurt to the World
The success story began at Frankfurt Airport in 1970, where HÜBNER folding bellows were first installed on passenger boarding bridges manufactured by Henschel. As a leading system provider for the mobility industry, the company has been developing flexible gangway systems since the 1950s, which are used worldwide, especially in rail and road vehicles. With this trusted technology, the HÜBNER has successfully transferred its expertise to airport technology. Whether in extreme heat or icy winter conditions, the materials used are designed for the harsh weather and operational conditions at airports.
Today, HÜBNER solutions are not only in use at many airports in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland but also at international hubs such as Dallas, Dubai, and London-Heathrow. „With more than 8,000 systems installed, we have been a reliable partner for airports across the globe for 55 years“, says Dirk Keßler.
Innovation and Comprehensive Service from a Single Source
Production is primarily carried out at the sites in Kassel and the US. In addition to the proven systems, the HÜBNER Group continuously develops new solutions for airport technology. These include contactless adjustment systems, landing gear protection solutions, and the so-called hinged folding bumper. HÜBNER also supplies the pleated canopies for passenger stairs.
One of the latest innovations is the pendulum sliding floor, which provides additional flexibility in limited cabin depth and creates more space for the safe opening of large aircraft doors. „Our pendulum sliding floor can extend up to 35 centimeters, offering even more flexibility during boarding", Dirk Keßler emphasizes. From October 7 to 9, 2025, HÜBNER will present all the developments of the corporate group in airport technology at Inter Airport Europe in Munich (Hall B5, Stand 137).
Moreover, the HÜBNER Group offers comprehensive service throughout the entire product lifecycle – from technical consultation to delivery and after-sales support.
Further information: www.hubner-group.com/en/mobility/airport-technology/