Greenpoint patents VVIP Boeing 747-8 elevator

Greenpoint Technologies, in Kirkland, Washington, obtains its first US patent for its Aerolift elevator.

Greenpoint Technologies, an authorised VIP completions centre for Boeing Business Jets, has obtained its first US patent for its Boeing 747-8 elevator, the Aerolift.

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The Aerolift will transport passengers of specially-equipped 747-8 jumbo jets between the runway and the aircraft’s main deck, with a 2.24 m high fully-enclosed carriage that descends directly beneath the fuselage, allowing passengers to enter and exit the elevator.

Scott Goodey, president and CEO of Greenpoint Technologies, said: “The Aerolift elegantly and securely transports passengers from the ground to the aircraft’s main deck, eliminating reliance on traditional ground-based boarding and deplaning methods.”

The Aerolift can carry four passengers or one wheelchair passenger with an attendant. As well as providing convenience, the elevator further protects the privacy of the passenger, which is likely to be a head-of-state based on the aircraft’s $356.9 million price tag (does not include completions costs).

Greenpoint provides the Aerolift as a complete installation for the 747-8 and it includes a lift carriage, an automatic door on the fuselage, a power unit and lift structure, as well as significant structural modifications to the main, lower, and upper deck.

Stephen Taylor, president of Boeing Business Jets, said: “Greenpoint is respected by the industry for technologically advanced innovation. Greenpoint is one of the original completion centers recognized by The Boeing Company and they consistently deliver novel solutions for technically challenging projects.”