transfer vehicle

The term "transfer vehicle" in aviation refers to specialized vehicles designed to transport passengers directly to and from aircraft. This concept originated in the early 1960s to streamline boarding and deplaning, eliminating the need for stairs and reducing aircraft movement on the apron. Mobile lounges, for example, could adjust their height to match both the terminal floor and the aircraft sill. However, these transporter designs have faced challenges, including longer turnaround times for aircraft and the risk of damage from heavy lounges, which has limited their widespread adoption by airlines and passengers.1