Partnering for solutions
Finavia and Aebi Schmidt have a long-standing, successful partnership, the benefits of which Finavia greatly appreciates. ”It is very important to us that we can rely completely on our partners. With Aebi Schmidt, we don't just get a product that works well. In fact, we feel that we receive all-round support. Especially in our winter business, it is important that the customer service works quickly and reliably,’ says Finavia’s Machine Equipment Specialist Mr Tero Santamanner. Finavia has augmented its fleet with five TJS 630 machines, strategically deployed across airports in Finland. This expansion is more than a mere acquisition of equipment. In the relentless pursuit of efficiency and reliability, Finavia will also equip these machines with the digital support systems for operations and fleet management from Aebi Schmidt. In recent years, Finavia has established their outstanding “snowhow” by facilitating data-driven decision-making and paving the way for future innovations.
Shaping a sustainable future
The core of the partnership between Aebi Schmidt and Finavia also addresses another commitment: The sustainable management of winter maintenance at airports. As a trailblazer in sustainability, Finavia is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. Embracing CO2 zero machines, including electric and hydrogen-powered equipment, represents a pivotal step towards greener aviation operations. With a pioneering initiative to pilot hydrogen as a motive power for heavy airport equipment, Finavia exemplifies its dedication to sustainable development within Finland and the aviation industry at large. “We are working in close cooperation also with Aebi Schmidt to further develop the existing machines with alternative drives. These developments of course take time. Thus, we are all the more pleased that we are already able to reduce our CO2 emissions and the use of spreading substances thanks to co-operation with Aebi Schmidt technology, and we have huge interest of implementing Airfield Pilot system from Aebi Schmidt”, concludes Mr. Tero Santamanner of Finavia.
Service excellence in times of need
For sure, Finland's unforgiving climate demands nothing short of excellence from winter maintenance machines. With temperatures plummeting below -40°C and snow conditions varying from dry powder to wet slush, versatility is key. Moreover, with machines operating round-the-clock, reliability is non-negotiable, ensuring airports remain operational regardless of the weather's whims. To have a brand with a Finnish heritage and a deep understanding of the Nordic conditions, it was natural for Finavia to choose the Arctic APV 8400 snowplough as the front ploughs for their jet sweepers. Furthermore, Finavia has established robust communication channels with its partners, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum efficiency. “Oh yes, the Aebi Schmidt spare parts webshop is really appreciated among our maintenance guys”, Mr. Tero Santamanner at Finavia says with a laugh. “I also really appreciate, that I can call the local service team any time during our main season. They have never let me down, and always came up with a tailored solution”.
Ready for the next level
In the ever-evolving landscape of aviation, Finavia stands as a beacon of innovation. Through strategic partnerships, technological integration, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Finavia continues to elevate its winter service standards, ensuring safe and smooth air travel, even amidst the icy embrace of a Finnish winter. Together with Aebi Schmidt, they envision a future where state-of-the-art machines not only tackle the challenges of today but also lay the groundwork for tomorrow's advancements, including such topics like driving assistance up to completely autonomous systems.
