Boarding Ramps: The Better Alternative to Aircraft Stairs

Aircraft stairs remain common across airports worldwide, but traditional passenger stairs can create challenges for both passenger and ground handling teams. Aviramp boarding ramps provide a practical alternative to aircraft passenger steps by replacing steep stairways with step-free ramp access.

Designed with low-angle gradients, non-slip surfaces and continuous handrails, Aviramp ramps help improve safety in wet, icy and high-traffic conditions while supporting accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. They also allow for one-person operation, reduce reliance on ambulifts and help improve operational efficiency during boarding and disembarkation.

A safer, more cost effective solution

Unlike traditional aircraft steps and stairways, Aviramp ramps are designed to meet international guidance which focuses on reducing the risk of ground damage to aircraft during servicing and boarding operations. Their soft-sided design and controlled approach help minimise the risk of contact damage around aircraft doors and fuselage areas, supporting safer and more consistent ground handling procedures.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about our passenger boarding ramps or arrange a demo, please call or complete the form below and a member of our team will get back to you.

(UK) +44 (0) 1952 291220
(US) +1 (678) 737-6181

Aircraft Boarding Steps Alternatives

International
Passenger Boarding Ramp

The International is designed for wide-body aircraft operations, serving everything from the A320 up to the A380 lower deck.

Continental
Passenger Boarding Ramp

The Continental is a fully motorised mobile boarding ramp suitable for a range of aircraft from A320 family down to EMB170.

Regional
Passenger Boarding Ramp

The Regional mobile ramp is tailored for regional and small to medium aircraft, Suitable for a range of aircraft from B737 down to Embraer & CRJ fleets.

Domestic
Passenger Boarding Ramp

The Domestic model is designed to optimise ground handling operations for a range of small aircraft, including CRJ fleets, EMB145, ATR 72/42 & Q400.

Lite
Passenger Boarding Ramp

The Lite is suitable for ultra narrow-body aircraft and turboprops, including EMB145, SAAB 340, ATR72/42 & Q400.

ChairLifter
EMA Loader

The ChairLifter transform the way airports and ground handling teams manage electric mobility aids. It eliminates manual lifting, reduces turnaround delays and protects valuable equipment.

Aircraft Ramps Versus Aircraft Steps - Which Choise Is Right For You?

The decision to use aircraft ramps or passenger steps has a direct impact on airport operations, influencing everything from safety standards to cost efficiency. While both options are widely used across the aviation industry, a clear understanding of their advantages in terms of safety, accessibility, and operational performance is essential. This guide provides the key considerations to help you determine which solution best fits your requirements.

Aviramp Boarding Ramps

Aviramp is the world’s leading manufacturer of aircraft boarding ramps, transforming passenger safety and accessibility at airports worldwide. Our innovative step-free, low-gradient designs offer a safe and dignified alternative to traditional boarding stairs for aircraft parked on remote stands. Aviramp supplies boarding ramps compatible with all major aircraft types, models, and sizes — ensuring seamless access across every fleet.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to discuss your aircraft boarding requirements, learn more about our ramps or arrange a demo, please get in touch.

Call or complete the form below and a member of our team will get back to you.

(UK) +44 (0) 1952 291220
(US) +1 (678) 737-6181

Frequently Asked Questions

How do ramps and steps handle bad weather conditions (rain, ice, wind)?

Aircraft ramps are specifically engineered for poor weather performance, featuring covered boarding environments and advanced docking seals that keep passengers dry. They include wind-resistant designs with optimised canopy engineering and non-slip surfaces tested in challenging conditions. Aircraft steps typically offer limited weather protection and can become hazardous in wet or icy conditions.

The footprint of the Aviramps vary dependant on model, starting at a stowed length of 735cm for our Lite model and going up to 1280cm for the International model.

Whilst steps can be integrated with jetbridges they are more typically used as a separate mobile unit at a hard stand.  Aviramps can be integrated with, or be a substitute for a jetbridge in most situations.

All Aviramp ramps come with a 10-year structural warranty and require minimal maintenance. We offer an annual service and certification plan to keep your ramp in the best possible working condition.

Aircraft ramps improve turnaround times by up to 30 per cent through more efficient boarding processes and elimination of separate accessibility equipment.

Yes, aircraft ramps are significantly better for people with restricted mobility and wheelchair users. They provide step-free access directly integrated into the boarding process, eliminating the need for separate ambulifts and ensuring dignified boarding for all passengers.

Yes, aircraft ramps dramatically reduce fall risks by eliminating stairs entirely. Their step-free design, combined with patented non-slip surfaces and low-angle approaches, prevents the slip and fall accidents associated with traditional aircraft steps.