Facts
Aviation-Milestones
First Jet Bridge Installed
1959
year
The first passenger jet bridge was installed at San Francisco International Airport in 1959, eliminating the need to walk across the tarmac.
Explanation
Before jet bridges, passengers walked across the open apron and climbed stairs to board the aircraft, exposed to weather and jet engine noise. The enclosed walkway connecting the terminal directly to the aircraft door was a major passenger comfort improvement. Today most commercial airports worldwide use jet bridges, though stairs and bus boarding remain common at budget terminals and smaller airports.
Source: SFO Museum / Aviation History