Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a tail of a fibrous web through a press section of a machine for making the fibrous web is disclosed. The apparatus includes a threading device positioned between first and second press section transfer devices that is pivotable between an inoperable position and an operable position. The threading device includes a stationary upper surface defined by a plurality of tubes. The tubes discharge air over the upper surface of the threading device to form an air cushion having an underpressure between the tail of the fibrous web and the threading device. The tail of the web is urged by the air cushion to the second transfer device and is threaded thereinto.