The Name of the Walkway from the Plane to the Terminal: Understanding Jet Bridges and Airbridges

The walkway from the plane to the terminal is commonly known as a jet bridge or airbridge. This structure serves as a safe and convenient passage for passengers to board and disembark from aircraft without being exposed to outside weather conditions. Let's delve into the various terms and their meanings to clear any confusion.

Common Terminology

Jet Bridge: This term is the most commonly used and refers to an enclosed, movable connector that extends from an airport terminal to an airplane. Airbridge: Another popular term, often used interchangeably with jet bridge. Skybridge: A generic term that can refer to any bridge that spans between a building and an aircraft, not exclusively for airports. Jetway: A specific brand name for this type of structure, which is a trademark of FMC. Gangway: A less common term used for the walkway but is more often associated with ships. Aerobridge or Airbridge: These are also used in place of jet bridge and are frequently heard in airport contexts. PBB (Passenger Boarding Bridge) or E-SPES (Expedited Suspended Passenger Entry System): Official terms used in the industry, often found in technical or aviation literature.

Traffic in the Aviation World

In the aviation world, the term 'airbridge' is used to describe this enclosed connector, which complements the technical jargon and official industry norms. It's important to note that while these terms are widely recognized, each has a specific nuance. For instance, in Some European countries, the term 'finger' is used to describe the extendable part of the jet bridge that reaches the airplane.

There is also another term, 'ataxiway', which is used to describe taxiways in airports, distinguishing them clearly from the boarding structures. This term is not as commonly used in everyday conversation, making it less relevant for our discussion.

Manufacturers and Brands

Jetway is a well-known brand in the aviation industry. Just like how Xerox is a generic term for photocopiers, 'Jetway' has become synonymous with passenger boarding bridges. However, it’s important to note that the term 'jet bridge' is the more commonly used and technically correct term.

The Technical Side

Technically speaking, a jet bridge is an enclosed, movable connector. They can extend from an airport terminal to an airplane or, in some instances, from a port to a boat or ship. These structures are extremely weather-resistant and can withstand various conditions, ensuring the comfort and safety of passengers.

Cost-wise, a jet bridge can range from one to five million dollars. Given their critical role in airport operations, these structures are often custom-designed to meet the specific needs of different airports and aircraft models.

Conclusion

While the terms 'jet bridge' and 'airbridge' are most commonly used and understood, the field of aviation has several other terms that are occasionally employed. It is crucial for both travelers and professionals in the aviation industry to have a basic understanding of these terms to ensure smooth operations at airports around the world.

Keywords: jet bridge, airbridge, skybridge