RJs & WCHCs
 

Just wondered if anyone out there has come across a mechanical means of boarding/disembarking disabled pax from ERJ/CRJ type aircraft.

I have watched on numerous occassions ramp staff struggling up and down the integral steps of these type of aircraft in all weathers because current vehicles are not designed to service this type of A/C.

At LGW BA had to purchase a purpose-built hi-lift Mercedes or VW (can't remember which) to service the RJ100 and ATR fleet. Whatever vehicle it is, it was extremely expensive and certainly beyond the reach of small carriers and small handling agents!

For WCHR pax, they disembark down the stairs and into a waiting mini-bus. WCHS and WCHC's need the special vehicle which presents its platform at the rear exit of the RJ.

Regional Jets always present a problem though, because the entrances/exits are very narrow - Thank God Rod Eddington's shipping them off to MAN and BHX (although I sympathise with their staff!)