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18 people sent to the hospital after mobile lounge crashes at Washington D.C.-area airport is certainly a concerning headline, and it’s understandable to be curious about what exactly a mobile lounge is, especially if you’re picturing something other than what it actually is. It’s not a common piece of airport infrastructure in many places, making it all the more intriguing. For those unfamiliar, it’s essentially a bus, but with a unique purpose and design.
These mobile lounges, also known as people movers, are used to transport passengers between the terminal and aircraft. In this particular incident at Washington Dulles International Airport, one of these lounges struck the dock at an angle. The dock is where the vehicle is supposed to pull up to allow passengers to safely enter and exit the concourse. The fact that the lounge hit the dock at an angle is what triggered the injuries and subsequent hospitalizations.
The term “mobile lounge” might seem a bit misleading, as the interior more closely resembles a metro car than a place designed for leisurely relaxation. These vehicles aren’t exactly known for their luxurious amenities, but rather their practicality in moving large groups of people efficiently. They are essentially elevated buses that can raise or lower themselves to align with both the terminal doors and the plane doors, simplifying the process for passengers.
Dulles Airport, known for its unique architecture and approach to passenger flow, is one of the primary locations where these mobile lounges are still in widespread use. In some ways, Dulles is a bit of a throwback. The design, conceived in a bygone era, aimed to streamline the movement of passengers by transporting them directly between the plane and the main terminal, bypassing the need for traditional jet bridges or walking on the tarmac.
The incident highlights the importance of safety protocols and vehicle maintenance. With 18 people requiring medical attention, the impact was significant. Hopefully, the investigation into the crash will determine the cause and lead to measures to prevent future incidents.
The mobile lounges are also used to transport passengers between terminals, adding to their versatility. They’re often seen as a way to avoid exposure to the elements, noise, and jet exhaust, especially helpful for people with reduced mobility or those traveling with luggage. Some people describe the mobile lounges as “elevator buses”.
The use of these vehicles isn’t without its detractors. While some appreciate their ability to shield passengers from the weather and simplify airport navigation, others find them slow and inefficient. Some people have referred to them as “people eaters.” Others jokingly liken it to a mobile cattle car.
Regardless of personal opinions on them, the mobile lounges are an integral part of the Dulles experience for many travelers. The recent accident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with any form of transportation, and the need for constant vigilance when operating and maintaining these specialized vehicles.