Seilbahn

Seilbahn is a transport system in which vehicles are pulled by a cable. The rope is driven at a terminal and passes over supporting structures or along a guide, and the vehicles may be suspended from the rope or run on rails. In German-speaking regions the term covers a range of rope‑driven installations used to move people or goods between locations, often across difficult terrain or over water.

The most common types are Luftseilbahn, an aerial ropeway with cabins or open chairs traveling between stations, and Standseilbahn, a funicular with cars that run on a fixed track and are pulled by a haul rope. Within the aerial category, gondola lifts (Gondelbahn) and chairlifts (Sesselbahn) are widely used for tourism, skiing, and urban access. Standseilbahnen are favored on steep slopes where a rail-based solution is practical.

Operation and safety aspects typically involve one or more haul ropes driven by a motor at a drive station, with supporting towers or a fixed guide path. Vehicles attach to the rope and are guided by wheels or rollers. Modern systems incorporate safety features such as redundant ropes, braking systems, continuous monitoring, and procedures for evacuations and emergencies. Regular inspection and maintenance of cables, brakes, drive equipment, and terminals are essential components of operation.

History and use: ropeways emerged in the 19th century and expanded through the 20th century. They are common in mountainous regions for tourism and winter sports and, in some cases, for urban transport or remote access where conventional rail or road links are impractical. Seilbahns are valued for their ability to span difficult terrain with relatively low ground disturbance and distinct energy efficiency compared with other forms of transport.