Garaventa: New Construction Of The Santis Aerial Tramway: Ropeway Project Takes Shape

The planning for the construction of the new Säntis cable car is progressing. The existing lift, which dates back to 1974, will be replaced by a new aerial tramway. Garaventa supported Säntis-Schwebebahn AG from project development to the building permit and is now looking forward to the realisation. The first guests should be able to take the new aerial tramway to the Säntis summit at the end of 2026. In addition to the reduction to one tower, the project also includes new, optimised cabins that offer an even better panoramic view.

The new cabins are specially designed to optimise the visitor experience. Although they are slightly larger than the previous cabins, the transport capacity remains unchanged at 85 passengers. This increases the space per passenger, which enhances comfort. A well thought-out panoramic concept with a raised panoramic front on the mountain side and a recessed floor on the valley side provide the best view from every seat in the cabin. The cabins also offer six seats, are barrier-free and designed for under-load transport.

Ropeway technology for maximum availability

The new drive system consists of two main drives and two emergency drives. In combination with gearboxes and brakes, this ensures maximum operational availability. Should one system fail, operation is still possible with a reduced payload. Two new emergency power generators also secure the power supply and enable a return journey to the stations. A separate rescue ropeway is no longer required thanks to the integrated evacuation system.

The aerial tramway is designed for unaccompanied operation, which means that flexible operating times can be realised and the staff can concentrate on looking after guests and providing them with an enjoyable experience. Furthermore, in extreme weather conditions, such as icing or storms, both cabins can be parked in the valley station, which further increases the availability of the aerial tramway.

New tower with intermediate exit

The new aerial tramway only needs one tower. The existing tower 2 will be replaced by a 43 metre high tower, which will also provide a guest platform for intermediate exits. The increased cable tension and greater freedom of movement of the cabins also improve the wind stability of the new aerial tramway.

Construction work will begin this year during ongoing ropeway operations. The foundations for the intermediate tower will be concreted and anchored in the summer. The installation work for the new ropeway will then start in spring 2026 so that it can be put into operation in late autumn 2026 and the first guests can take the new aerial tramway to the Säntis summit.

85-ATW Schwägalp-Säntis