International airport ramping up demand for Telford firm
The boss of Telford manufacturer Aviramp has hailed a "huge coup" for the aeroplane ramp maker after it sealed a contract with San Francisco International Airport.
America's seventh busiest airport is undergoing expansion, and has now ordered three ramps from the Telford manufacturer, which is looking at opening in the USA to accommodate its growth.
It adds another major US airport to the company's list of customers, following deals with Dallas Fort Worth and Miami International.
Managing director Graham Corfield said: "This is a huge coup for us and further demonstrates the need for us to open in the US.
"This major airport which is government-owned has worked hard to overcome the US government's Buy American regime.
"Normally it would take them at least nine months to prove to the government that the equipment cannot be purchased in the US and then put out a competitive tender.
"They got approval for this $550,000 (£380,000) contract within three weeks as the airport is under huge expansion."
The order is for three International units which service aircraft such as the Airbus A380, 747 Jumbo Jet right down to the Easyjet style A19.
One unit will be bolted to the terminal building where a fire door will be removed, providing a new gate where passengers will be able to walk to their aircraft.
Aviramp emerged from Mr Corfield's business making ramps for wheelchair access for vans and cars.
The company was asked to design a boarding ramp to help disabled passengers onto planes, and the Aviramp has expanded since then, with the company now focusing solely on the aircraft side.
With the interest and demand coming in, Aviramp is now looking manufacturing expansion into the USA to meet the increasing demand for its ground-handling products.
Mr Corfield added: "This proves the equipment works in smaller regional airports right up to the major internationals."
