FAMCO delivers first Volvo A380 catering hi-loader

The first of the Volvo truck loaders was delivered earlier in the day to Emirates Flight Catering Services (EKFC), part of Emirates Group, in a private ceremony outside its new purpose-built facility in Dubai. Representatives from the two groups watched a demonstration of the system, which transfers catering loads, to and from the main decks of aircraft that can range from the low rise Boeing 737 to the Upper Decks of the multi-storey heights of the A380.

FAMCO is the first company in the region to provide, the Volvo state-of-the-art mobile loading equipment required to stock Airbus' new flagship aircraft with food and other goods. The sheer size of the huge aircraft, which represent a next big leap forward in air travel and passenger aircraft technology, demanded new loading solutions. FAMCO responded by adapting the X-Cat L Hi-loader system for use with the Volvo FL220 6x2 truck and, in the process created a versatile loading system.

The refrigerated catering hi-loader truck, manufactured by Thai-based CTV-Doll to new specifications, is expected to become an industry standard once the new Airbus aircraft comes into service across the globe.

Emirates airline has 55 A380's on order. The first will enter service next year. Worldwide, some 165 A380's are expected to be delivered and enter service with airlines around the globe.

Mr. Mark Johnson, National Service Manager of FAMCO, handed over the keys of the first Volvo truck hi-loader to Mr. Haroon Siddiqui, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer of EKFC. Mr. Joe Lahoud, Divisional Manager of FAMCO's Volvo Trucks and Buses division said:

"The technologically advanced hi-loader is one of the most specialised and advanced commercial vehicles to be produced. Volvo's trucks have earned a worldwide reputation for meeting difficult and demanding criteria. They have lived up to that reputation once again."

"These are super trucks to meet the requirements for loading the A380. The delivery of this truck to EKFC is an extension of the existing Volvo trucks in its fleet and integral to the fleet family."

The truck is designed to elevate and stretch to serve the upper deck door number one situated above the wing of the A380. The 26-ton vehicle measures 11 meters in length, has a width of 2.5 meters and an overall height of 4 meters. Compared to conventional hi-loaders the double scissor mount elevates to a maximum height of 8.40 meters.

The X-Cat L hi-loader has a maximum payload of 4.5 tons and can handle even the heaviest long-haul double service loads. Safety considerations were paramount and are reflected in the design of the hi-loaders. The efficiency of the system gives a plus rating in ramp safety and enhances the turnaround time for aircraft, thereby contributing to the maximum use of slots without compromising the ground loading and safety parameters.

Mr. Haroon Siddiqui, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer of EKFC said: "Emirates take delivery of their first Airbus A380 aircraft in August 2008; this aircraft presents many challenges, not just for the airline, but also for all the airport service providers. We are taking the first step in addressing these challenges today, as we receive our first catering hi-loader capable of servicing upper deck of the A380 aircraft."

The hi-loader trucks EKFC will use will receive 24-hour support from FAMCO's Rashidiya facility, close to Dubai International Airport.