Garaventa Has Completely Modernized The Gondola Lift Connection Between Crap Masegn, Fuorcla & Vorab Glacier For LAAX

Garaventa has completely modernized the gondola lift connection between Crap Masegn, Fuorcla and the Vorab Glacier for Weisse Arena Bergbahnen AG. Modern technology ensures higher transport capacity and more efficient operation.

The gondola lift connecting Crap Masegn, Fuorcla, and the Vorab Glacier has a long history. In 1978, Weisse Arena Bergbahnen AG put the six-person gondola lift, built by Habegger, into operation, thus opening up the Vorab Glacier, the highest point in the LAAX ski area. This historic lift has now been replaced by a new one, as the old lift could no longer be operated for licensing reasons.

The new eight-person gondola lift follows the existing route and features state-of-the-art technology. Two sections with separate drive systems now allow for a transport capacity of 1,500 people per hour at a speed of six meters per second. If needed, the Fuorcla–Crap Masegn section can increase its capacity to up to 2,000 people per hour by transferring cabins from the other section. This reduces the transport capacity of the Fuorcla–Vorab section accordingly. The 77 OMEGA IV cabins accommodate eight people and are equipped with upholstered seats, external ski racks, and hinged windows.

Retrofit concept: Sustainability in high mountain regions

The project is based on a comprehensive retrofit concept by Weisse Arena Bergbahnen AG, which allows for the reuse of existing infrastructure. The station buildings in Crap Masegn and Vorab were able to remain unchanged, as the new gondola garages were integrated into the existing building structures. The route was also reused. 22 of the 24 existing truss supports were retained and fitted with new support heads and roller assemblies. Overall, approximately 80 percent of the existing steel was reused.

By consistently utilizing existing structures, material usage, construction costs, and transport logistics could be significantly reduced. This is a crucial advantage in alpine terrain. "Complete dismantling would have meant transporting 300 tons of steel back up into the high mountains. We were able to avoid this effort thanks to the retrofit concept," explains Alicia Martinez, Head of Construction Projects at Weisse Arena Bergbahnen AG. Furthermore, reusing the existing structures shortened the construction time.

For Weisse Arena Bergbahnen AG, the project has significant strategic importance. Chairman of the Board Reto Gurtner emphasizes: “For us, modernization doesn't mean tearing down, but rather improving. With our retrofit, we are increasing guest comfort and simultaneously sending a strong message: We are continuing to use existing resources, conserving raw materials and energy, and thus consistently bringing the LAAX28 vision to fruition. This is how sustainability is created that is not just promised – but actually delivers.”

The project is also a milestone for Garaventa. Ueli Sutter, Sales Project Manager, says: “Every project ends with a new beginning. Retrofit projects make it possible to keep existing lifts fit for decades to come. They are a key component of the Doppelmayr Group’s ESG strategy and combine economic success with ecological and social responsibility.”

The new gondola lift will ensure continued access to the Vorab Glacier. It is based on the proven UNI-G technology from Doppelmayr in Wolfurt, while the modern cabins come from CWA in Olten.