SkyConnect APM inaugurated at Tampa International Airport

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America (MHIA) has completed the installation of its SkyConnect automated people mover (APM) system at Tampa International Airport in Florida.

SkyConnect runs between Tampa’s Main Terminal, an economy garage and a new rental car center, covering 1.4 miles in approximately five minutes. The APM can transport up to 2,850 people per hour in each direction.

Joe Lopano, CEO of Tampa International Airport, said, “This is an exciting day for Tampa International Airport and the Tampa Bay community. The new SkyConnect people-mover system will help the airport grow for years to come, while continuing to offer exceptional customer service. We have a great partnership with MHIA and we are pleased with the safe and successful delivery of our SkyConnect system.”

MHIA received the APM order from the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA) in November 2014, and completed the project on budget and ahead of schedule. MHIA was responsible for the integration of the entire APM system, including installation work. SkyConnect is the eighth APM system delivered by MHIA in the US market, following previous successful APM projects at major airports in Orlando, Miami, Washington DC and Atlanta.

Darin Friedmann, vice president and general manager of MHIA’s transportation systems division, said, “With the dedication of our team and the close partnership with the airport, we opened this system ahead of our contractual schedule, and with record-breaking performance.

“We are proud to help transport passengers at Tampa International Airport, the birthplace of the APM industry, and help bring the airport into the future.”

MHIA was also awarded a five-year contract, with two additional five-year options, to perform operation and maintenance work for SkyConnect.