Abstract: One embodiment of an automated system for carrying passengers between airport terminal or concourse facilities and parked aircraft is shown. The embodiment comprises PRT guideways (13, 14, 15, 23, 27), vehicles (21) and stations (22). Some PRT stations are linked to parked aircraft (11) or aircraft parking positions by means of conventional loading bridges (12), while others are linked to terminal or concourse buildings (15). No PRT station is linked to more than one aircraft. Other embodiments are described and shown. The embodiments provide a high level of service while reducing the need to construct terminal or concourse buildings adjacent to each aircraft parking position.

Abstract: One embodiment of an automated system for carrying passengers between airport terminal or concourse facilities and parked aircraft is shown. The embodiment comprises PRT guideways (13, 14, 15, 23, 27), vehicles (21) and stations (22). Some PRT stations are linked to parked aircraft (11) or aircraft parking positions by means of conventional loading bridges (12), while others are linked to terminal or concourse buildings (15). Other embodiments are described and shown. The embodiments provide a high level of service while reducing the need to construct terminal or concourse buildings adjacent to each aircraft parking position.

Abstract: A personal rapid transport system comprising guideways (20) and automated transportation pods (28) containing wireless computer communications (44) allows passengers to undertake transactions with airline, airport and security staff while traveling from intermodal centers (16) directly to aircraft boarding gates (38). The system transports checked bags to the gate and, with the possible exception of security screening, mostly eliminates the need for standing in line and walking long distances. The system issues boarding passes and baggage tags to passengers in the transportation pods, informs them of the waiting time until boarding and offers them their option of waiting areas. The system can ensure passengers arrive at boarding gates at their individually assigned boarding times thus virtually eliminating waiting at the gate.