Garaventa: Two Traditional Cable Cars Have Been Relaunched After Decades

Garaventa has comprehensively modernized two historic aerial tramways: the Fellhornbahn I in the Allgäu region (Germany) and the Elsigbach–Elsigenalp in the Bernese Oberland (Switzerland). Both systems have been technically and visually upgraded after 50 and 40 years of operation, respectively.

Fellhornbahn I – panoramic views in all directions

The first section of the Fellhornbahn in Oberstdorf, a cable car from Faistenoy to Schlappoldsee, was built in 1972 by Habegger in Thun, a company that today belongs to Garaventa AG. The centerpiece of the modernization are the new, floor-to-ceiling glass cabins, which offer passengers a panoramic view. The running gear and suspension were retained during the modernization. They were overhauled and subsequently reinstalled in the Garaventa service workshop in Uetendorf. In addition, the control system was completely replaced, the braking systems, including the double hydraulic brake unit, were replaced, a new emergency drive was installed, and automated platform screen doors were installed. The modernized system has been back in operation since August and was officially inaugurated on September 20, 2025.

Elsigbach–Elsigenalp – Modernization after 40 years of operation

In Frutigen in the Bernese Oberland, the Elsigbach–Elsigenalp aerial tramway, built by Garaventa in 1985, underwent a comprehensive modernization after 40 years of operation. The renovation was carried out as part of the concession renewal and included both technical and visual improvements. The new cabins, developed specifically for this system, enhance passenger comfort and create a visual highlight. Automatic platform screen doors increase safety when boarding and disembarking, and the barrier-free design meets the requirements of the Federal Act on Equal Opportunities for People with Disabilities (BehiG). The tram can now also be operated unaccompanied and has been back in operation since June.

"These two projects demonstrate how we use our experience and synergies within the Doppelmayr Group to make existing installations fit for the future," says Damian Zenklusen, Sales Project Manager at Garaventa. "The combination of technical innovation and high-quality cabin design offers our customers long-term added value." The new cabins in both projects are supplied by Carvatech.