Overview
Teesside Airport required a faster, more efficient way to unload cargo from converted passenger aircraft as demand increased and new contracts began immediately. The existing unloading process relied heavily on manual handling and a basic baggage belt system, creating delays, operational bottlenecks, and increased labour demands.
North Automation Group supplied a high-rise telescopic conveyor system with a 9‑metre flexi extension, enabling cargo to move quickly and safely from aircraft containers directly into the palletising area within the hangar.
The result was a streamlined unloading operation designed to support high‑volume cargo handling while improving speed, flexibility, and operator efficiency.
The Challenge
Teesside Airport needed to rapidly adapt its unloading process to support growing cargo operations using converted passenger aircraft.
However, the existing setup created several operational challenges:
- Cargo was initially unloaded using a standard baggage belt, which was not designed for high‑volume freight handling.
- Manual handling requirements slowed the unloading process and increased labour demands.
- Aircraft containers required an efficient transfer point between the plane and the warehouse.
- Varying pallet layouts within the hangar created difficulties when positioning goods for palletising.
- Speed was critical, as the new cargo contracts had already begun and the system needed to be delivered quickly.
Teesside Airport required a solution that could be implemented rapidly while significantly improving unloading speed, workflow efficiency, and operational flexibility.
Our Solution
North Automation Group supplied and installed a high‑rise telescopic conveyor system complete with a 9‑metre flexi extension, specifically designed to support fast and efficient aircraft cargo unloading.
Key Components of the System
- High‑Rise Telescopic Conveyor: Extends directly into the cargo container to reduce manual handling and create a continuous unloading flow.
- 9‑Metre Flexi Extension: Provides additional flexibility within the hangar, allowing operators to adapt to varying pallet layouts and unloading positions.
- Integrated Workflow Design: Supports a smooth transfer process from aircraft to palletising area.
- Rapid Deployment: The solution was delivered within a tight timeframe to support the immediate start of cargo operations.
The final unloading process created a clear and efficient material flow:
Plane → Scissor‑Lift Container → Telescopic Conveyor → Palletising Area in Hangar
This significantly reduced unnecessary handling while improving unloading speed and overall operational efficiency.
The Outcome
✔ Faster Cargo Unloading
The telescopic system dramatically reduced unloading times by creating a direct transfer route from the aircraft containers into the hangar.
✔ Improved Operational Efficiency
Operators could unload and palletise cargo more efficiently thanks to the additional flexibility provided by the 9‑metre flexi extension.
✔ Reduced Manual Handling
The system minimised repetitive lifting and unnecessary movement, helping to improve ergonomics and reduce physical strain on staff.
✔ Rapid Project Delivery
The equipment was delivered and implemented within a critical timeframe, allowing Teesside Airport to begin supporting new contracts without delay.
Client Feedback
“Working with the team at North Conveyors has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. The recent rapid turnaround on our conveyor system for unloading airline cargo was nothing short of impressive. The team ensured everything was delivered on time without compromising quality, and the system performs flawlessly. The pricing was extremely competitive, offering excellent value for money, and the level of service throughout was professional, responsive, and reliable. It’s clear the team takes great pride in their work, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend North Conveyors for any similar projects.”
– Wes Thompson, Managing Director at Jaymac Solutions
Looking to Improve Cargo or Container Unloading?
North Automation Group supplies intelligent conveyor and warehouse automation solutions designed for fast‑moving logistics operations, cargo handling environments, and high‑volume unloading applications.
Whether you require telescopic conveyors, unloading systems, or tailored automation solutions, our team can help design a system around your operation. Feel free to contact us for expert advice with no obligation.