Terri Meyer Boake B.E.S. B.Arch. M.Arch.
Professor School of Architecture University of Waterloo

Vancouver International Airport Vancouver, British Columbia Architectura with Bush Bohlman Engineers   Construction: Suspended Walkways

The skywalks are an important feature of the airport, from the point of view of design as well as security. They are used to separate the various types of passengers in respect to destination (Canada, U.S., International) and level of security.

In contrast to the tunnel that visitors first experience upon arriving at the existing terminal, the unique glass-enclosed suspended walkways or "sky bridges" of the new terminal afford panoramic views of Vancouver. These moving walkways are framed with transverse "fish belly" girders (so called because their webs are deeper at mid-span than at the ends) supported by rods hanging from the roof girders. Additional horizontal sway rods ensure lateral stability at the walkway level.

The ribs of the suspended walkway are preassembled and attached to the moment frame prior to erection	A side view of the suspended walkway in place
The suspended walkway in the main hall. Note it is not level. The tension rods are not tightened until later.	View of underside of suspended walkway structure in the arrivals lounge
Steel workers attach the metal railings and tighten the tension rods	Close up view of side connection of suspended walkway to main structure
Close up view of steel attaching members	Close up view of top attachment of tension rods to main structure

Fabrication	Construction: Moment Frame	Main Page	Airport Architecture	Domestic Terminal

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last updated February 11, 2021