What is a Skytram?

An aerial skytram consists of one or two fixed cables (called track cables), one loop of cable (called a haulage rope), and one or two passenger or cargo cabins. The fixed cables provide support for the cabins while the haulage rope, by means of a grip, is solidly connected to the truck (the wheel set that rolls on the track cables). An electric motor drives the haulage rope which provides skytram propulsion.

Skytrams are constructed as reversible systems with skytram vehicles shuttling back and forth between two end terminals and propelled by a cable loop which can stop and reverse directions when the cabins arrive at the end stations. Skytrams differ from gondola lifts in that gondola lifts are considered continuous systems (cabins attached onto a circulating haul rope that moves continuously).

Two-car skytrams use a jig-back system: a large electric motor is located at the bottom of the skytram so that it effectively pulls one cabin down, using that cabin's weight to help pull the other cabin up. A similar system of cables is used in a funicular railway. The two passenger or cargo cabins, which carry from 4 to over 150 people, are situated at opposite ends of the loops of cable. Thus, while one is coming up, the other is going down the mountain, and they pass each other midway on the cable span.

Some skytrams have only one cabin, which lends itself better for systems with small elevation changes along the cable run.

Book Whistlers Mountain Skytram