LEJ Airport is one of Germany’s most important airports – especially in freight. As the world’s largest and most significant DHL air hub and 24/7 operation with night flight clearance, the airport requires maximum reliability and precision. When the first snow falls, winter operation must run seamlessly. In addition to the personnel, the Schmidt TJS-C 420 and TJS-C 630 jet sweepers are at the heart of the winter operation fleet, clearing aprons and runways efficiently and precisely in convoy operation
The effort behind the scenes
While we are still looking forward to the upcoming summer holidays, winter training begins at LEJ. More than 300 people receive theoretical and practical training, with exams that comply with EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) standards. Starting in July, 60 internal employees will train on the TJS-C jet sweepers in specialised driving sessions – including convoy operations in realistic scenarios – followed by another 60 external drivers starting in August.
The training concept is essential
“About one third of our drivers are new each year. The training concept has to be right – the transfer of experience is crucial," says René Kirsten from LEJ. "In Aebi Schmidt, we have a partner who not only supplies machines and systems, but also has in-depth application knowledge. From preparation to training and winter deployment to follow-up, the Aebi Schmidt team is committed, interested and actively supports us. A real added value."
Aebi Schmidt accompanies with heart
In conversation with Theresia Winkler-Fluegel, Manager Product Management Airport at Aebi Schmidt, it becomes clear that her job is much more than just technology. She puts her heart and soul into it – She puts her heart and soul into her work – sometimes right there in the driver's cab of our TJS-C at LEJ. "It's about mastering technology, understanding processes and working as a team – especially with a view to the joint further development of automated driving. We accompany and support this important work wherever we can."
Ready for action together – whatever the season
The close cooperation between Leipzig/Halle Airport and Aebi Schmidt shows how modern winter operation management can be future-oriented: technologically advanced, practically trained and supported by a partnership.
When the first snow falls, LEJ is ready – thanks to good training, reliable technology and genuine teamwork.
