Service platforms for aircraft maintenance – advanced access systems for the aviation sector 

Project: E/6495 
Sector: aerospace industry 

Safe access in aircraft maintenance – solutions for demanding environments 

The aviation sector requires structures that combine the highest level of safety, stability and ergonomics. Service platforms used during aircraft maintenance must operate reliably in variable conditions, allow precise positioning and maintain durability despite intensive use and exposure to marine environments. 

This project was carried out for one of the largest European aircraft manufacturers – a company developing advanced technologies for the civil, military and space aviation sectors. The client required a set of service platforms precisely matched to aircraft maintenance processes and fully compliant with their technical documentation. 
In response, TLC designed and delivered a complete system of steel-aluminium service platforms, each with a specific function and configuration. 

TLC’s contribution: from documentation adaptation to complete fabrication 

A key part of the project was adapting the client’s documentation to TLC’s production capabilities and quality-control processes.

The main working platform forms the central maintenance area — stable, equipped with access stairs with handrails on both sides and protective railings, featuring an anti-slip working surface and recessed deck lighting. Its purpose is to provide a safe working position at the required height, with access from both the front and the side. 

The mobile platform is equipped with rotating locking arms that allow precise positioning in different aircraft zones. Bushings, slide bearings and gas springs were used to ensure smooth movement and support operators during frequent adjustments. Opening side service platforms extend the working range and enable safe access to hard-to-reach areas of the aircraft structure. 

The segmental platform was designed for quick transport and efficient storage. Its ability to be disassembled into six segments, along with precise bolted connections, allows long-distance transport and reassembly on-site without compromising structural accuracy. 

Technical solutions designed for aviation environments 

All platforms were equipped with engineering features dedicated to aircraft maintenance requirements, including: 

• a suspended guiding system enabling controlled movement of the structure, 
• additional counterweights improving stability,
• a foot brake, 
• circumferential welds increasing resistance to marine conditions. 

The top surfaces are fitted with non-slip floor plywood painted in RAL 7040. All steel components are finished with an anti-corrosion coating in RAL 7035, RAL 9016, RAL 3001 selected specifically for environments with high humidity and salinity. 

The project incorporates a range of components responsible for smooth movement, safe adjustment and long-term durability during intensive use in marine conditions: 

• Bushings and slide bearings – ensure smooth movement across the numerous movable joints used in the project. 
• Movable joints – the design includes a significant number of moving elements, requiring robust components that guarantee durability and safety. 
• Gas springs – support actuator operation, making platform handling easier. 
• Rotating locking arms – secure the platform in the working position. 
• Opening side service platforms – enhance functionality and allow access to different areas of the aircraft structure. 
• Foot brake – integrated with the running gear to immobilise the structure during operation. 
• Guiding rails (overhead guiding system) – enable linear movement of the platform along a single axis. 
• Additional counterweight – improves overall structural stability. 
• Recessed deck lighting – provides better visibility during maintenance without protruding above the working surface. 
• Circumferential welds – applied to increase resistance to environmental exposure, which is particularly important due to use near coastal areas. 
• Anti-corrosion protection – provides comprehensive protection of steel elements in marine environments. 

All components were produced on time and in accordance with the highest quality standards. The final structure reflects a comprehensive engineering approach to designing maintenance platforms for the aviation sector. 

Project details 

Project: E/6495 
Scope: aircraft service platforms 
Sector: aerospace 
Corrosion protection: powder coating

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