New Airside Insurance Provides Greater Capabilities For Cadman Cranes

At Cadman Cranes, we are always striving to provide our clients with the best possible service — not only in terms of the cranes we supply and our sustainable working practices, but also in how we manage risk and ensure the safety and security of every project we undertake. That’s why I’m pleased to share some exciting news that sets us apart from many of our competitors. As of the end of 2024, we now offer airside insurance, with coverage up to £50 million across all UK airports.

This specialised insurance policy is something that most crane hire companies avoid, given the unique challenges and risks associated with working in airside environments. But at Cadman Cranes, we believe in taking on tough projects, and our airside insurance gives our clients a level of protection that ensures peace of mind, no matter how complex the lift.

So, what is airside insurance? Why do most crane companies steer clear of it? And, most importantly, what are the benefits it offers our clients? Read on to find out more about how this insurance is taking our lifting solutions to the skies.

What is Airside Insurance?

For those who may be unfamiliar, airside insurance is a specialised form of coverage required to work within the airside zones of airports. In layman’s terms, when you visit an airport terminal it is effectively the area through security, beyond passport and customs control.

This is the area where aircraft is handled — runways, taxiways, loading and unloading bays, hangers and other areas directly connected to flight operations. The work that we do in these zones is subject to strict regulations and can involve significant risks. As you can imagine, a crane operating close to a runway has the potential to create huge safety and security hazards. These ultimately could come with massive financial implications if there was an incident. So it’s crucial to have insurance that specifically covers the unique circumstances of airport environments.

At Cadman Cranes, we’ve invested in airside insurance with a coverage limit of £50 million, covering all lifting operations across airports in the UK. This insurance policy is crucial for us to be able to safely carry out crane hire and contract lift services at airports without exposing ourselves — or our clients — to unnecessary risk.

Why Do Most Crane Companies Avoid Airside Insurance?

Airside operations are not for the faint-hearted. Airports are high-traffic, high-risk environments with tight security, strict regulations, and complex logistics. The presence of aircraft, the need for special clearances, and the constant flow of people and vehicles make airside areas inherently challenging for lifting operations.

As a result, many crane hire companies shy away from these areas or limit their scope of work on airport sites. Without the proper insurance, the risks involved are simply too great, and many businesses prefer to avoid them altogether.

However, at Cadman Cranes, we have a different philosophy. We believe in providing solutions to our clients, no matter how difficult or complex the task. Our airside insurance allows us to take on contract lift works in these demanding environments with complete confidence, ensuring that both we and our clients are fully covered.

The Key Benefits of Airside Insurance for Our Clients

1. Comprehensive Coverage for High-Risk Work

Airside work involves much higher risks compared to standard lifting operations. With aircraft movements, high-traffic zones, and potential hazards such as bird strikes, the risks are amplified. However, there are countless jobs at these locations which need the support of cranes. This can include delivering specialist equipment (such as radar and fuel delivery equipment), engine replacement, building / machinery refurbishment and wider civil engineering projects.

With our airside insurance, we can offer our clients comprehensive coverage for all eventualities, including third-party liability, damages to airport property, and unforeseen incidents during the lifting process.

For our clients, this means they can have full confidence that any lifting operations at airports are covered from start to finish, minimising risk and ensuring that their projects can proceed smoothly.

2. Contract Lift Flexibility

With a contract lift, we take full responsibility for the planning, execution, and safety of the lift. This includes everything from risk assessments to managing the operation on-site -elements which are vital when planning and carrying out operations at airports or at aviation facilities. The airside insurance covers the entire operation, which means our clients don’t have to worry about any unforeseen issues.

This not only protects our clients but also streamlines the process for them, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their project while we handle the lifting.

3. A Strong Reputation for Safe Operations

When working at airports, there’s no room for error. Any disruption could cause delays or even serious consequences for airport operations. With our airside insurance, we ensure that every project is handled with the utmost care, efficiency, and safety.

For our clients, this enhances their reputation as well. Having a reliable crane hire partner with the appropriate insurance coverage to work in airside zones speaks volumes about their commitment to safety and professionalism.

4. Operational Coverage Across All UK Airports

Another huge advantage of our airside insurance is that it extends to all airports across the UK. This means that no matter where our clients are operating, whether it’s a major international hub, a regional airport or even an aviation maintenance facility, we can offer them the same level of assurance and coverage. Whether you’re dealing with tight deadlines, complex logistics, or specific regulatory requirements, Cadman Cranes is ready and able to assist.

Whether you’re tackling a challenging lift at a major UK airport or navigating unique logistical requirements, our expertise and comprehensive insurance ensure your project is in the safest hands.

Get in touch with us today to learn how we can elevate your next airside operation.