Ground Handling Simulator · Module
Passenger Stairs Simulator
Alongside the airbridge, passenger stairs are one of the two ways people get on and off an aircraft, and the only one on almost every stand without a JetWay. The module trains the full procedure: positioning, connection and disconnection, before the operator does it at a real aircraft.
What the Module Covers
Stairs are a sequence, not a single manoeuvre. Every step has to be done in order and confirmed before the next one is allowed.
01
Locating and Transport
The operator finds the vehicle assigned to the stand, on the stand map or by line of sight, then drives it to the area of the aircraft passenger door.
02
Positioning
The platform threshold has to sit parallel to the aircraft door threshold and directly opposite it. The system signals correct placement, so precision is trained instead of guessed.
03
Leveling and Connection
Once in position, the platform height is adjusted to the level of the aircraft door threshold and the bridge platform is extended to the fuselage. Where required, safety railings are deployed.
04
Communication with the Crew
Connection ends with a confirmation to the crew, which is what releases the aircraft door opening procedure on the simulator side.
05
Disconnection Before Pushback
The same procedure in reverse: railings and bridge platform retracted, careful drive away from the aircraft, and the vehicle parked clear of the pushback path and other apron operations.
Connection and Disconnection
Both halves of the procedure are trained and assessed. The disconnection is not an afterthought: it decides whether pushback can start on time.
Precision You Can Measure
Positioning is where the procedure is won or lost, so the module tells the operator where they stand rather than leaving it to judgement.
- Placement zone
- A highlighted area on the apron marks where the stairs belong. When the whole outline sits inside it, the operator gets a clear confirmation.
- Two points, one clearance
- The manoeuvre counts as correct when both outer ends of the platform edge fall within the clearance of the aircraft door threshold. Close is not enough.
- Live placement readout
- A UI tool shows the current position and level of the stairs while the operator works, so a correction is made before contact, not after it.
Two Vehicle Variants
Stands are served by whichever type the station owns, and the two are operated differently. Both are available in the module.
Variant A
Self-Propelled Stairs
A vehicle with its own drivetrain and driver cabin, handled by the operator at every stage: drive to the stand, position, level and extend the bridge platform.
- Driven directly by the trainee from start to finish
- Working lights, rotating service beacon and turn signals
- Hydraulic height adjustment from the cabin
- Supports lowered once the vehicle is in position
Variant B
Towed Stairs
No drivetrain of its own, so a separate tractor is needed to bring it to the stand. Manoeuvring is done by the towing vehicle; connection and levelling are done after it is parked in position.
- Tractor and towed unit as two separate tasks
- Positioning accuracy limited by the towing manoeuvre
- Platform adjustment and bridge extension after parking
- Same acceptance criteria at the aircraft door
Optional Configurations
Added on request, once the scope is aligned with the aircraft types and the stands you actually serve.
Stairs rarely work alone.
The module can be combined with Passenger & Crew Transportation, so the bus run and the stairs are trained as one exercise.
Passenger & Crew Transportation moduleHardware Configuration
Three station configurations, from essential to fully immersive, plus an optional add-on for natural head tracking. Each one runs the same simulation and the same procedures.
More Training Modules
Explore additional simulation modules designed to complement core ground handling training. Each module focuses on specific operational areas, enabling targeted skill development and comprehensive procedural coverage.
Book a Demo
Get in touch to see the Passenger Stairs module in action, in the self-propelled or towed variant, and to talk through the aircraft types you serve.