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AVIANCE UK OK SCHOPF

· SCHOPF GmbH wins bid
· 48 aircraft tractors for Aviance UK
· Rising order volume leads to expansion and additional jobs

   
 

(11/13/2006, Stuttgart/London) - The German ground support equipment manufacturer SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH of Ostfildern near Stuttgart has won the bid from the British company Aviance UK for an entire fleet of aircraft tugs. Fortyeight tractors ranging from the F110 to the F396, the latter earmarked for airbus A380 operations, will be shipped across the English Channel in the coming 18 months.

The conclusion of the deal means that production at SCHOPF will immediately ramp up to 'full speed ahead', and for 18 months a succession of new units will leave the company premises bound for London and beyond.

SCHOPF models ranging from the versatile F110 to the high-performance F396 ­ each of which embodies the accumulated experience of 40 years of design and manufacturing expertise ­ will join the delivery parade. Aviance UK will be able to pushback and tow any and every aircraft around, including the Airbus A380 and the 600 000 kg Antonov AN 225 ­ the world´s heaviest airplane.

GSE manufacturers from around the globe were invited to participate in the bid, and after a long period of intensive study Aviance UK ­ which is responsible for ground handling at 17 airports throughout Great Britain and Ireland ­ chose SCHOPF. Price was not a crucial element in the decision process, but rather safety, quality, reliability, longevity and excellent references were the deciding factors. In short it was the overall impression created by the SCHOPF brand that did the convincing.

Arthur Dodgson, Aviance´s Managing Director, commenting on the contract, said:
"This order underlines our commitment to support our customer airlines with first class GSE at Heathrow and in our regional businesses. We worked closely with SCHOPF to ensure that we had the right equipment at the right time to handle the exciting developments relating to the A380. SCHOPF clearly understood our need for both value and quality and have proved to be good partners."

And as Managing Director Dr. Hermann Brueggemann happily points out: "SCHOPF understands its British customer´s requirement for quality and reliability. This large order means that SCHOPF and its sub-suppliers can together plan future production more effectively. Particularly gratifying is the opportunity to create new jobs".

In addition to the Aviance deal, sales to e. g. Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Russia, New Zealand, North Africa, France and Belgium - most of which were multiple orders - have also contributed to SCHOPF´s steady advance in the aviation market.

"This is a very positive trend ­ one which I am happy to say brings great benefit to Ostfildern by securing continued employment for the region." added Dr. Brueggemann, emphasizing the strength and stability of his company.

For further information and images please contact

   
   

 

  Dr. Hermann Brüggemann hands over the keys to Mr. Ken Archer, Operations Director Aviance after successful acceptance   SCHOPF F180 - for middle size aircraft

 

   
         
  SCHOPF F396P - for all aircraft especially for A380 and B747    

 

   
 
  Wizard of Aus
   
 

Ostfildern (Ruit), 24th of August 2006 - SCHOPF continues its success with the revolutionary PowerPush system. Pioneered in Europe at the beginning of the 1990s, the system has blazed a trail in Australia and New Zealand during the last few years.

Convinced by the proven low cost of ownership and outstanding on-time performance, Air New Zealand became the first antipodean carrier to select PowerPush. Originally chosen for use on the ANZ B737 fleet the system these days also performs pushbacks on A320s and forms the backbone of narrow body pushback operations in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. The PPU’s popularity saw it quickly adopted by Air New Zealand’s customer airlines as the pushback method of choice.

PowerPush was soon making waves big enough to cross the Tasman Sea. Proven in New Zealand on daily Qantas operations it was quickly adopted by Qantas’ daughter airline Jetstar and its competitor Virgin Blue. These days PowerPush operations are the norm in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

PowerPush differs from other towbarless pushback systems in that it attaches to the main landing gear and does not lift the aircraft. Aircraft movement is performed by the smooth application of rotational forces to the tires by means of four friction drive rollers.

During pushback the PPU is remotely controlled by the headset man. On completion of pushback, the PPU is removed from the aircraft by remote command, and returns to the operator after the aircraft has departed. PowerPush is faster, safer and cheaper than alternative pushback systems.

Enjoying SCHOPF’s reputation for quality, a supreme safety record, and maintenance and running costs much lower than other pushback systems, PowerPush is second-to-none. With one-man pushbacks saving money and manpower day in, day out, PowerPush is the cost-conscious pushback solution for Low-Cost Carriers.

More than 180 PowerPush units worldwide continue to save their owners millions of dollars every year…contact us if you would like to learn how.

For further information and images please contact

   
   

 

       

 

   
      PowerPush in operation on Australian and New Zealand airports  
       

 

   
 
  Moving Experience
   
 

Ostfildern (Ruit), 24th of July 2006 - For almost 60 years SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH has produced special vehicles for the mining industry. In the 1960s Schopf began production of aircraft tractors, which nowadays form the major part of the company’s business. Today Schopf is considered by industry experts to be a world leader regarding conventional aircraft towing tractors and loading systems. In 2003 the company returned to 100% German ownership, and has shown uninterrupted growth ever since.

Schopf’s CEO Dr. Hermann Brüggemann decided to celebrate this success story by holding an open day – the first in the company’s history. Guests included the company’s 100 employees, their families and friends along with business partners and folks from the neighbourhood. Everyone who attended was moved by the day’s events – and like most they were unaware that they have also been moved in a more literal sense by products from this medium-sized German company whenever their aircraft have left the gate.

A strict “Total Quality System” and the characteristic German fastidious attention to detail are important ingredients in the continued success of Schopf. One such success is the remotely controlled PowerPush pushback system which has revolutionized the positioning of aircraft on the apron. This agile unit is extremely safe and reliable, while its purchase price - and above all its operating costs - are much lower than comparable products. Important considerations in today’s business climate.

The company founder, Jörg Schopf, insisted on paying the company his personal respects during the open day, and he took the opportunity to study the new production halls and the latest technological developments introduced by the company’s present-day owners, CEO Dr. Hermann Brüggemann and Finance Director Claus Haubeil.

The 85-year-old founder of the company was delighted to meet many of his former employees, who each bear testimony to the continuing warm family atmosphere of the company.

The high export ratio of approximately 90 % deserves a special mention. Visitors to the assembly halls could see products being readied for such destinations as New Zeeland, Singapore, the Middle East, Africa and the Commonwealth of Independent States - evidence that this company from Ostfildern continues its impressive expansion in the world market. Under the banner “Made in Germany, Made by Schopf” a medium sized Swabian company has achieved market leader status in 150 countries.

Employees, friends and neighbours alike experienced at first hand the workings of the various departments which contribute to successful development of the company. So successful was the open day that despite the heatwave there were at times 400 or more visitors on the premises taking advantage of the guided tours to gain a better insight and understanding of the success of Schopf.

For further information and images please contact

   
   

 

  The 85-year-old company founder, Jörg Schopf (center), with CEO Dr. Hermann Brüggemann (right) and Finance Director Claus Haubeil   Every full hour, visitors were guided through the halls...

 

   
       
  ...and got to watch the demonstrations of various powerful special vehicles.   While the young guests were using fun attractions such as bouncy castle, climbing wall and "beat the goaly"...

 

   
       
  ... the grown-ups were talking shop about what they had seen, enjoying a "Schorle" or a beer.   Everything was catered for to ensure the physical well-being and to quench the thirst in the great summer heat.

 

   
 
  Non-stop SCHOPF Berlin Airshow
   
 

05/19/2006, Stuttgart/Berlin - Aerospace companies from around the world have chosen the 2006 Berlin International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) to be their shop window. More than 1,000 exhibitors from 42 different countries are displaying their latest technology in the 250,000 square meter exhibition.

And for the task of towing display aircraft from their overnight stands to the airport exposition areas, the Berlin organizers picked aircraft tractors manufactured by SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH from Ostfildern, near Stuttgart. The proven technology of SCHOPF tractors provides the power, performance and precision necessary at such a demanding venue.

It is thanks to the SCHOPF F396 that the largest passenger aircraft in the world – the brand new Airbus A380 – is towed safely to, and positioned accurately in, the exhibition area. Once again SCHOPF’s innovative vehicle technology with its compact design and precision 4-wheel, 4-mode steering system, is proving its appeal; A380 pilots and tug drivers alike appreciate the smooth, jerk-free acceleration and high towing speed of the 70 – ton tractor.

"Made in Germany" is synonymous with quality and reliability - factors which remain the guarantee for successful operations essential for customer satisfaction. Only by consistently selecting components of the highest grade and quality is the superb reliability and availability of SCHOPF equipment ensured. For example, major components such as engines and transmissions are chosen from the prominent German manufacturers DEUTZ and ZF.

DEUTZ AG from Cologne has proved to be an able partner, whose products stand for quality and reliability. Its engines meet strict European requirements of low emissions and high fuel economy, and are at the heart of the F396’s power and performance.

For gearboxes, SCHOPF depends on ZF Passau GmbH (a subsidiary of ZF AG Friedrichshafen). ZF is the world beating precision transmission producer for offroad machinery, who for the F396 supplies SCHOPF with the ZF-Ergopower WG 310. Over and above its high efficiency, the outstanding features of this fully automatic transmission are its smooth, jerk-free up and down-shifting through a full range of speeds from 0 – 30 km/h, even under load. This is of vital importance in aircraft towing, in order to avoid damage to aircraft nose gear, to which the tow bar is attached.

And it is not just the ILA exhibition that has chosen to rely on SCHOPF’s proven technology; the company has already delivered more than 30 A380 capable tugs to customers around the world. Our reference list includes New Zeeland, the Far East and Middle East, Africa and of course most major airports in Europe.

No matter where in the world - airports, airlines, and handlers both civil and military rely on aircraft tractors "Made by SCHOPF".

For further information and images please contact

   
   

 

  Airbus A380 with SCHOPF F396 at Berlin Airshow 2006   Airbus A380 with SCHOPF F396 at Berlin Airshow 2006

 

   
       
  Boeing C-17A Globemaster III of US Air-Force with SCHOPF F396 at Berlin Airshow 2006    

 

   
 
  Flying Colours - SCHOPF and the A380
Giant Airplane, Great Tug, Huge Success
   
 

November 2005 - A few days ago the world’s largest passenger aircraft – the brand new Airbus A380 – made its first appearance outside of Europe on a promotional tour covering the Middle East, Asia and Australia. Flight demonstrations were performed for numerous airlines, while on the ground special attention was paid to the technical aspects of handling this gigantic aircraft.

Of particular interest were the many pushback, towing and ranging operations of varying degrees of difficulty successfully carried out by SCHOPF’s new F396P aircraft tractor. An essential part of these procedures was to demonstrate guaranteed safe, efficient and smooth operations in apron and ramp areas.

And of course the SCHOPF F396P with its drawbar pull of 460 kN proved its worth every time – the A380 was handled with dispatch and efficiency in every wind and weather scenario. Decades of experience handling the world’s heaviest aircraft – including the 600 000 kg Antonov An 225 – paid off.

While other manufacturers continued to test and develop their first prototypes for the A380, SCHOPF was busy delivering upwards of 25 A380 compatible tractors to customers in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia and Oceania. In Germany (Frankfurt), Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and New Zealand customers already depend on the proven reliability of SCHOPF technology to meet the demands of today and tomorrow.

And it is not just the ability to handle the A380 that makes the F396P so attractive to its owners. Thanks to its innovative and simple variable ballast system, tractor weights can be easily adjusted between 50 and 70 tons, which offers an unrivalled flexibility and ensures that the F396 remains the first choice for handling other widebody aircraft too.

“We are very satisfied with the tests and what we have achieved during the A380’s latest tour. Our customers are confident in the proven ‘Made in Germany’ technology and inherent reliability of the F396, which provides high availability and low life-time costs,” says Managing Director Dr. Hermann Brüggemann, with scarcely concealed enthusiasm.

“And the F396 was very well received at the InterAirport trade show in Munich recently, with many positive responses clearly confirming a global interest in the model, and even as we speak SCHOPF is engaged in advanced negotiations with airlines and ground handlers from around the world”.

"No matter where the A380 touches down in future, SCHOPF will be there” adds Dr. Brüggemann.

   
   

 

  A380 with SCHOPF F396 at Airbus premises in Hamburg   A380 with SCHOPF F396 on promotional
tour in Singapore

 

   
       
  A380 with SCHOPF F396 in Frankfurt    

 

   
 
  PAUS & SCHOPF – united we are strong
   
 

September 2005 - A new sales co-operation between Hermann Paus Maschinenfabrik GmbH in Emsbüren and SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH, Ostfildern.

Paus, a manufacturer of machines and vehicles for mining and the construction industry and SCHOPF, a manufacturer of special vehicles for airports and mining, have combined their sales and service activities for customers in mining: The two LHD loader ranges have been merged. The product lines complement each other perfectly because Paus is strong in smaller loader shovels with payloads of up to 6 tonnes; SCHOPF contributes with a payload range of 6.5 – 18 tonnes. In addition Paus's dump truck and utility range will be marketed jointly by the international partners: Both manufacturers will benefit from the presence of the respective partner in different regions of the world.

“As a result of the merger customers will now have the largest loader range on the market with a total of 9 models. Both companies have been known for years for their efficient equipment. We have already started marketing efforts in the traditional mining areas of South America, Africa and Eastern Europe and are expecting the first successes shortly," report Dr. Hermann Brüggemann, managing partner of SCHOPF and Franz-Josef and Wolfgang Paus, managing partners of Hermann Paus Maschinenfabrik GmbH. "For customers of both companies there will be significant advantages from an integrated product range and service all from one place. With a well diversified dealer network we are now also in a position to pit ourselves against the major competitors."

   
   

 

  PFL8 in apatit-mine   SFL130 in magnesit-mine

 

   
         
  SFL180 with rock salt loading    

 

   
 
  Second construction phase completed
   
 

July 2005 - In order to increase capacities and to meet rising demands in manufacturing efficiency, SCHOPF commissioned back in 2002 a new workshop which is offering an improved environment for the assembly of large tow tractors and the new cargo line (please refer to news dated 01/2003 in archive).

The second construction phase started in summer 2004 with a total investment volume of 1.4 mill. €. The new buildings were required due to a capacity related expansion. The new complex integrates the main warehouse, incoming goods control, shipping areas plus a workshop with any necessary test equipment for final vehicle inspection. The upper floors are utilized for offices of the customer service and design departments as well as a new training room.

Ahead of the warehouse relocation with 13,000 part lines the logistics were systematically improved according to consumption and space. The warehouse is now very close to the workshops with the result of further productivity increases.

A separate building comprises new changing facilities, showers and a canteen for the workforce – next to a roofed stock area for large components.

The improved building situation enables the company to handle the orders in hand very smoothly and efficiently.

   
   

 

  Completed vehicles ready for shipment to port   A look behind the scenes: movable shelf system for euro-pallets

 

   
       
  Building comprises two floors of additional office space   Canteen for the workforce with the stock area for large components next to it

 

   
 
  Aircraft tow tractor manufacturer SCHOPF well prepared for Airbus A380
   
 

Stuttgart, 04/26/2005 - The world’s largest passenger aircraft– the Airbus A380 – passed its maiden flight with flying colours.

As result of an European-wide master achievement in technical engineering, a new epoch in the carriage of passengers has begun. However, not only in the air, but also on the ground this huge airplane with a take off weight of around 600 metric tons and a wing span of nearly 80 meters places new dimensions on engineering challenges. A central task is to guarantee safe pushback operations in the apron area of this gigantic A380 - which are handled by powerful aircraft tow tractors.

As most tractor manufacturers are still testing their first prototypes for the A380, the SCHOPF company has already delivered more than twenty A380-compatible tractors to customers in Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania. The new model designed for the A380 - the SCHOPF F396P - delivers impressive figures: 450 PS/330 kW Deutz diesel engine, drawbar pull of up to 460 kN with a maximum weight of 70 tons, makes sure that even the largest aircrafts like the A380 will be handled fast and safe.

SCHOPF’s experience with the world’s heaviest cargo aircrafts (like the 600 tons Antonov 225) has been integrated completely in the development of the new SCHOPF F396P and the new and exciting variable ballasting system. Due to the fact that ground handlers can variably choose between 50 and 70 tons maximum tractor weight - and therefore only operate with full weight in case of real need - the SCHOPF F396P is not only a real time and money saver, but a secure handler for the A380 as well as for all other aircraft types. Other features of the tractor include elevated or rigid front and rear cabs, with left- or right-hand steering, for a single driver or to accommodate three people; platform for ground power unit; remote operated tow-couplings; and maximum noise level of 80 dBA in the driver's cabin at maximum engine speed.

As an innovative option a rotating seat provides drivers with good rear visibility, and allows operations in reverse without the need for the driver to change to the rear driver's position. When the A380 is on final approach, SCHOPF takes care from the beginning that everything works perfect on ground, too.

   
   
  SCHOPF F396P „Ready for A380“   SCHOPF F396P „Fraport“ at factory
   
     
  SCHOPF F396 with Antonov An 225    
   
 
  Way up in the north!
   
 

December 2004 - A few weeks ago, an aircraft tow tractor, type F 220 was delivered to Norilsk, Russia.

Norilsk is an important mining and metallurgy center in the outermost part of northern Siberia, which lies near the Arctic circle on the Taymir peninsula (69th degree of latitude). The most important resource is nickel, of which there is a large deposit here. The climate in Norilsk is extremely cold and inhospitable. The winter period lasts 250 days per year. The temperature drops down to –45 degree Celsius in the arctic winter with the long nights. In addition, there is a constant icy wind.

According to the vast experience of SCHOPF with extreme climatic conditions, Norilsk decided towards an F220. In that particular case the tractor was fitted with a special arctic design such as extra heating systems, double glass panes, tires filled with nitrogen and other technical features. Converting to such extreme climatic requirements is a significant challenge for SCHOPF, one which the entire team has taken on.

There are only two means of transportation to Norilsk – either by sea or by air. There are no railways or highways that connect the lonely industry location to the rest of Russia. In this respect, the airport of Norilsk (ZAO “Alykel”) is an important hub for the region. The SCHOFP F220 is now an essential component of the operating capability of the airport.

   
   

 

  SCHOPF F220 in the forefront
with JAK 42
  SCHOPF F220 with the company jet
of Norilsk Nickel

 

   
       
  Temperature display showing -38°C in the city center   A view into the mining area for nickel extraction

 

   
 
  Training offensive – the next generation commences
   
 

On 1st September 2004, 4 youngsters started their training at SCHOPF. “We need new blood and must lay the foundation stone now so that young people can become tomorrow’s key players”, says Claus Haubeil, Director Finance & Human Resources.

SCHOPF has been taking on industrial mechanics for training over a number of years. One such trainee has already completed his course and has remained loyal to the company. In the IT department too, one specialist per year has been trained over the last few years.

In 2004, the company management took heart and created a total of 4 new training places. Besides an industrial mechanic and one IT specialist, training places have also been created for a draftsman and an industrial administrator. It is the declared aim to take on all trainees who prove to be suitable at the end of their apprenticeships.

“This initiative is enabling us to make a small contribution to alleviating the acute lack of trainee positions and support the initiative of the Employers’ Association, albeit that this is rather a second rate objective,“, explains Haubeil.

7 young people are currently receiving training at SCHOPF.

 
     
  Picture: Trainees + student with Dr. Hermann Brüggemann in front of tug  
   
   
 
  New Banking Partners
   
 

Following up the management buyout completed in November 2003, the management has taken decision towards a new collaboration with Kreissparkasse Esslingen-Nürtingen and Südwestbank, Stuttgart regarding the required investments plus guarantee and working capital facilities.

Both banks consider their respective focus on midsize companies in the region of Baden-Württemberg.

Furtheron Kreissparkasse as well as Südwestbank are strongly competent and service-oriented in foreign trade which is of major importance to SCHOPF. The processing of letters of credit, foreign trade guarantees and payments will remain on professional level for customers abroad.

 
     
   
     
   
     
 

For further information about the new banks please contact the Finance Director by e-mail:

 
   
 
  New Kid on the Block: SCHOPF F160
   
 

February 2004 - During the "Interairport fair" in Munich in October 2003 SCHOPF introduced the latest model - the SCHOPF F160 - to the GSE industry.

   
 

The SCHOPF F160 fits perfectly into the SCHOPF product line between the SCHOPF F110 and the SCHOPF F180 and incorporates many innovative features, e.g. a new cabin design, new jerk free gearbox, flexible ballast system etc.

Operating weights vary from 16,000 to 23,000 kg.

 

 

   
       
   
 

The drawbar pull installed is 180 kN and the SCHOPF F160 can move any aircraft up to 200,000 kg in take-off weight. The modern cabin design and backward visibility underline the state-of-art characteristic of our new kid on the block.

 
   
 
  Change of Ownership in SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH
   
 

Ostfildern, November 28th, 2003 - Vehicle Solutions N.V., Brussels / Belgium and SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH, Ostfildern / Germany today jointly announced it completed the sale of all of the shares held by Vehicle Solutions N.V. in SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH to Dr. Hermann Brüggemann (Managing Director) and Claus Haubeil (Finance Director), who will continue to manage the business in the future.

The terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH is one of the world's leading suppliers of ground support equipment for the aviation industry serving customers in more than 140 countries across the world. SCHOPF's product range comprises aircraft tow tractors, cargo loading equipment and a specialized line of heavy duty mining equipment. In addition, SCHOPF has an excellent reputation for its after-sales service.

"It has been the international scope and SCHOPF's remarkable reputation among customers, with many of them having been served by SCHOPF for more than 50 years, which motivated me seven years ago to join SCHOPF and also now to take a chance on this very special company for Claus Haubeil and myself to make an offer to our parent to acquire shares in a Management Buyout", says Dr. Hermann Brüggemann, Managing Director of the company.

"With the sale of our shareholding in SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH, Vehicle Solutions N.V. has successfully completed its withdrawal from the aviation market. We are confident that SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH, under new ownership and in hands of a proven management, is well-positioned to further improve its market share and will benefit when market conditions improve again" comments Paul Skertchly, Commercial Director of Vehicle Solutions N.V.

The vendor has been advised by CMS Hasche Sigle, Stuttgart and KPMG Corporate Finance, Frankfurt. The Buyout team was advised by Binz & Partner and Eicon AG, both Stuttgart.

   
  Dr. Hermann Brüggemann
Claus Haubeil

SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH
  Paul Skertchly
Vehicle Solutions N.V.
   
   
  SCHOPF F396P towing Boeing 747-400
at Frankfurt airport

  SCHOPF L6A Underground Loaders
   
 

The original Press Release in English / German language and high-res pictures can be found in the SCHOPF Press Center (for access, your registration is required).

   
 
  Discover our World of GSE at inter airport europe 2003 in Munich
   
  September 2003 -SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH of Stuttgart, Germany - the internationally renowned manufacturer of quality GSE - has been conceptualizing, designing and manufacturing specialist vehicles since 1948.  
   
 

At the inter airport europe in Munich, SCHOPF will present entirely new GSE products for airlines, handling companies and airport authorities as well as a huge amount of brand new innovative features.

   
 
 

New products on exhibition:

LoadStar - The most innovative container / pallet loader on the market
F396 - New technology points the way to the future
F160 - The latest SCHOPF innovation makes its debut
PowerPush - The most economical pushback unit ever

Through the years, SCHOPF has accrued a fund of engineering expertise and competence enabling the company to incorporate the best technological features into its products. Many of these innovative features will be presented in Munich.

 
   
 
   
 

New features on exhibition:

Engine and Transmission Management -
new combined engine and gearbox management systems

Power Train -
new intelligent power transfer systems allow jerk-free operations

Cushioned Tow Hitch -
new special absorption system which ensures improved on-time-performance, better operational reliability and reduced costs

Operator Comfort -
Cabin Design. The all-new lifting cabin

Operator Comfort -
Steering Systems. Latest electronically-controlled steering technologyfor excellent manoeuvrability and effortless control

Maintenance Access -
improved maintenance access with easily to reach service points - reducing workload and boosting productivity

 
   
 

It would be a great pleasure to meet you in Munich
at the SCHOPF stand (G80 in the outdoor area).

Discover our World of GSE!

 
 
   
 
   
  July 2003
Encounter of the Giants: SCHOPF F396 towing the world’s largest aircraft
 
   
  The Antonov 225 is the largest aircraft around the globe with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 600 tons. Initially the aircraft was designed for transportation of the Russian Space Shuttle "Buran”.

Nowadays the An-225 is available for civil cargo charter. It can carry up to 250 tons of cargo, mainly heavy weight utilities such as locomotives, industrial equipment or even aircraft parts. The complete assembled body of a Boeing 737 can be fitted into the An-225.

The most popular tractor on the market to move the large Antonov is the SCHOPF F396. While the monster turns up at several airports around the world to pick up and deliver heavy-duty cargo, a F396 is ready on hand to do the pushback.

   
     
  With this reference the SCHOPF F396 is well pre-pared for arrival of the new Airbus A380, which will still be smaller than the An-225. Any airline, airport operator or ground handler can easily anticipate the first arrival of a A380 in 2006 without investing into new GSE equipment, if he is already operating SCHOPF’s high performance tractor.  
     
  Our top range model, the SCHOPF F396 P will be able to operate the A380 in long distance towing. We will be able to upgrade the tractor for tougher airport conditions. For further information regarding the charter of An-225 please refer to www.antonovairlines.com    
     
     
     
   

  April 2003
SCHOPF LoadStar for Paradise
 
   
  The 7ton LoadStar was introduced to the general public during the Munich interairport show in 2001. Since then SCHOPF has continuously improved the product and supplied several units to customers around the globe.

Just recently SCHOPF received an order from Air Seychelles for Mahé international airport, located at the most picturesque spot in the Indian Ocean.

The LoadStar™ is painted all over in intensive blue and reflects the colours of the impressive blue waters around the magnificent islands. During the month of April the unit is delivered to its final destination.

 
     
     
     
  From receipt of the order there was a big discussion and battle among the staff, who of the service engineers would have the chance to fly over to the Seychelles for commissioning of the unit.

For a European this holiday paradise is a lifetime dream. The decision has been taken finally and we wish the "winner” a pleasant stay not only for technical reasons.

   
     
  So watch out once you travel to the Seychelles whether your baggage will be unloaded by the new SCHOPF LoadStar™.

Developments are going on for the SCHOPF cargo line of products in order to enhance supplementary features for our customers.

For further information on the LoadStar™ and the cargo line of SCHOPF please refer to our cargo section.

For a virtual trip to the premium travel destination of the Seychelles please refer to http://www.seychelles.com

   
     
   

  February 2003
New ISO 9001 certification
 
     
  Since 1999 SCHOPF was certified according to the ISO 9001:1994 standards and since then has  
  continuously improved quality standards in order processing and manufacturing.  
     
 

Highest quality, reliability and perfect customer service has ever since been the key approach of SCHOPF with all its products.

Consequently SCHOPF has challenged the latest international standards and prepared for external audits according to ISO 9001:2000. The preparation process took several months and involved all managers and their staff. Joerg Klump, quality manager at SCHOPF since April 2002, was responsible for this task and performed an excellent job together with external advisors and auditors.

All these efforts were rewarded with the receipt of the new certificate "ISO 9001:2000 approved”, which was issued by SGS German certification company just recently.

   
     
   

  January 2003
SCHOPF expands manufacturing facilities in Ostfildern
 
   
 

Due to production and assembly constraints SCHOPF had to undergo vast planning activities to rearrange the site for future purposes. The manufacturing needs for cargo equipment and improvements for the assembly of conventional tractors required those steps to ensure a suitable long-term use of the property.

The architectural design process had already started in 2000 and took several months until a satisfying durable concept was found that could be executed in several sub phases.

 
 

 

     
 

 

The board of shareholders approved the plans in summer 2001 and immediately afterwards construction works began.

In a first step is was necessary to modify the supply of electricity, gas and water.

[See photo 1 - infrastructure works].

 
     
   

The next stage was to build a new assembly hall to accommodate cargo equipment and to improve conditions for the manufacture of the large conventional tow tractors (F220 and F396 series).

[See photo 2 + 3 - new assembly hall East]

 
     
   

The building was completed in spring 2002 and has proved better efficiency right from the beginning.

The main improvements are in space arrangement and cranes’ capacity.

 
 

 

     
    "Thus we can still ensure short-term availability and maximum product quality to our customers all over the world" says SCHOPF’s Managing Director, Dr. Hermann Brueggemann.  
     
   

 

February 2002
SCHOPF demonstrates highest performance with new F396 P at Frankfurt airport

 
         
 

With well over 200 units in operation word-wide, the SCHOPF F396 is one of the company’s best selling tractor. Weighing up to 60 tons it can handle the largest aircraft available on the market, even under the most difficult conditions. Incorporating over 30 years of experience in tractor design and in manufacture, the F396 is widely regarded as the best heavy aircraft tug on the market. Building on this success, SCHOPF offers the F396 in 3 new, different versions.

The first units of the new generation F396 are in operation in Frankfurt.

The F396 P is the most powerful F396 (330 kW Deutz Diesel with installed drawbar pull of 445 kN) and fitted with a power train designed for high speed towing and pushback. An innovative turntable seat provides drivers with excellent rear visibility, and allows operations in reverse without the need for the driver to change to the rear driver’s position – a real time saver.

(picture showing F396 P towing large Thai aircraft Boeing 747-400 at Frankfurt airport)

 
     
   
     
 

See full press release "New Generation of F396s from SCHOPF" in our Press Center
(for access, your registration is required).

 
     
   

  October 2001
SCHOPF at inter airport europe in Munich
 
             
  The company SCHOPF has been well prepared for the biggest international Ground Support Equipment Show in Munich from 9th - 12th October, 2001 - the inter airport Europe. The Stand with 500 m2 was fitted with the latest GSE-equipment of the company. Together with its sister company Douglas, UK, SCHOPF presented a range of innovative new products, which were shown for the first time to a world wide spread of customers.

At least the same number of visitors compared with previous shows, had shown up. Detailed discussions about the products and the market development have shown the high competence of the visitors. In particular the new container/pallet loader "LoadStar" was well received and overwhelming positive comments have been made regarding the simple operation and the clever design. The F 110 tractor, the successor of the well-known F 106 found already a new owner during the fair. The compact design and the ease of maintenance was much appreciated.

Last but not least the F 396 E, the economical version of the F 396 with the latest built in technology has been the top-runner on the show. Many of our customers recognized the low-cost-version with Top-SCHOPF-Quality as being exactly suited for their daily work.

In general SCHOPF is very pleased with the results of the fair and is looking forward to following up the contacts for new projects.

One of the highlights during the exhibition was definitely our "Win a real star"-lottery. Each day we raffled one real star - with official "International Star Registry" parchment certificate.

Congratulations once more to the proud new star-owners:

 
             
  Mr. A. Sumardi
PT JASA ANGKASA SEMESTA
Indonesia

Mr. Geert Vandeputte
AVIAPARTNER, Belgium

Mr. Khalid Alzaidi
AMIRI FLIGHT
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.

Mr. Armando Pérez
SAISA EUROPA S.A.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain

 
             
       
             
  Mr. Khalid Alzaidi

with SCHOPF's chairman
Dr. Hermann Brüggemann
  Mr. Armando Pérez

with SCHOPF's chairman
Dr. Hermann Brüggemann
  Mr. Geert Vandeputte

with SCHOPF's chairman
Dr. Hermann Brüggemann
 
             
  Some more inter airport impressions:  
             
   
   
   

 

September 2001
SCHOPF at inter airport europe in Munich

 
         
 

You don't necessarily have to come to Stuttgart to get informed about the company SCHOPF or our wide product range of aircraft tow tractors, cargo loaders, passenger stairs and other ground support equipment.

We participate in most of the larger aviation and GSE events around the world. Why not stop by and experience our unique products firsthand.

SCHOPF has been - with great success - at the inter airport europe exhibition in Munich:

 
     
   
     

 
June 2008
60 years of Power

On Thursday, 12th of June 2008 the company SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH was 60 years old. That anniversary was celebrated in a dignified scale...


 
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Stuttgart Airport invests in new Schopf aircraft tractors

Stuttgart Airport, one of the most dynamically expanding airports in the sector with over 10 million passengers per annum and a growth of more than 7% during last year ...


 
April 2007
SCHOPF Underground Loader SFL60 XLP

SCHOPF Maschinenbau GmbH supplies diesel driven Underground Loaders (LHD’s) with payloads ranging from 6,000 to 18,000 kg. Designed for toughest ...

      last updated:    06 - 27 - 2008
SCHOPF