The B717 Height Adjustable Cantilever Platform: Optimized Access for Boeing Maintenance
The Height Adjustable Cantilever Platform is the purpose-built access solution designed for the Boeing B717. This specialized product provides aviation maintenance teams with unparalleled safe and efficient access to elevated, critical sections of the B717 airframe, specifically targeting over-wing and upper fuselage maintenance zones.
Engineered to meet the stringent demands of modern aviation repair, this platform is an integrated tool that enhances technician safety and precision during complex maintenance procedures on the B717. Its innovative features include the cantilever design, which allows the platform deck to project over the wing or fuselage, delivering a close, obstruction-free working environment.
This is crucial for accessing components that require technicians to be directly above the surface, such as flap systems, control surfaces, fuel panel inspections, or detailed visual checks of the upper fuselage skin and antennae mounts.
Precise Height Adjustment and Mobility
The platform design incorporates a sturdy, yet intuitive, height adjustment mechanism. Accessibility is achieved via a reliable manual winch system, providing a large range of incremental height settings. This adaptability ensures the work deck can be precisely positioned to the exact contour and elevation required for various B717 maintenance tasks, from lower fuselage regions up to the highest points of the wings.
This fine-tuning capability drastically reduces strain on technicians and maximizes the effective working envelope, supporting productivity.
Safety and Structural Integrity
Safety and durability are central to the platform’s construction. The work surface uses high-traction Treadplate Decking, ensuring secure footing even in demanding hangar environments. The platform is stabilized by wind-down stabilisers, which lock the unit securely in place, eliminating movement and creating a firm, safe foundation for personnel and tools. Mobility within the hangar is provided by 200mm Heavy-Duty Swivel Braked Castors, allowing for smooth relocation and precise positioning around the B717 airframe.
Once positioned, the integrated brakes and stabilisers ensure steadfast immobility during operations.
Key Access Features for the B717 Height Adjustable Cantilever Platform
Access to the working areas is managed through multiple entry points and safety features. Side Gates and an End Gate allow flexible entry onto the platform deck. For specialized access requirements—particularly those tasks requiring penetration or inspection through the wing surface—the platform includes a Removable Hatch located on the deck.
This feature facilitates direct, internal access to the top of the wings or fuselage, often necessary for certain sensor checks, structural evaluations, or routing inspections.
Enhanced Technician Safety
Technician safety is further addressed through integrated features. Contact points are fitted with Foam Buffers to protect the sensitive aluminum and composite surfaces of the B717 from accidental contact during maneuvering. The steps are fitted with high-visibility Fibreglass Step Nosings to minimize slip hazards during ascent and descent. For ease of movement and positioning by maintenance personnel, the platform is equipped with ergonomic Handles for relocation.
The B717 Height Adjustable Cantilever Platform in Maintenance Operations
In the B717 maintenance context, this platform specifically addresses the challenges of elevated work on the wings and upper main body. Maintenance crews rely on this cantilever system for major inspections (like C-checks or D-checks), detailed non-destructive testing (NDT), corrosion control, repair of upper access panels, inspection of high-frequency (HF) antennae, and scheduled servicing of hydraulic and pneumatic components accessible from the wing upper surface.
By providing a stable, adjustable, and protective working area, this platform significantly improves efficiency and technician comfort, translating directly into faster turnaround times and adherence to stringent B717 airworthiness directives. It is an indispensable asset for any facility performing scheduled or unscheduled heavy maintenance on the Boeing 717 fleet, ensuring all elevated maintenance activities are performed correctly and safely.
Consider pairing this with the Boeing B717 Main Entry Door Stairs for complete aircraft access.
