Gulfstream Aerospace has developed an airstair hoist system that it says provides easier access to business aircraft travel for passengers who require a wheelchair.

When combined with an airline-approved wheelchair, the system enables the passenger to enter the aircraft via a platform that ascends the airstair, stopping at the entrance of the main cabin door.

From there, the wheelchair can be rolled into the cabin and the passenger can then transfer from the wheelchair to a cabin chair.

First developed in 2000 for medical patients restricted to stretchers, the hoisting system was adapted two years later for use by passengers who have difficulty climbing stairs or who rely on wheelchairs for independent mobility.

The unit, which comprises a motorised pulley system, collapsible rails and a platform, is available on five Gulfstream models: G550, G500, G450, G400, G300 and as a retrofit on two legacy models, the GV and GIV/GIV-SP.

The motorised pulley has been developed in conjunction with aircraft interior and medevac specialists LifePort, who also manufacture the rails and platform.

The entire system, which Gulfstream says takes between 20 and 30 minutes to assemble and disassemble, is stored on the aircraft and can be operated by either a handheld remote control or a switch installed in the cabin.

Powered independently through either aircraft or built-in battery power, the hoist system can be used at any location.