Crane deployment for a rollercoaster in alpine high mountains
August 25, 2025 | Moritz Glück
“Our branch in Liechtenstein, in Triesen, is responsible for the installation of three stations on the new Crap Masegn — Fuorcla — Vorab railway line. “We are thus making an important contribution to modernizing the infrastructure in the Laax ski area,” explains Roger Beck, managing director of Bau-Trans Triesen. With this project, the Weisse Arena Group, operator of the ski area, is replacing the over 45-year-old Habegger gondola lift, whose last day of operation was in March 2025. Stations and supports are largely retained and are reinforced or adjusted. The new gondola lift from manufacturer Garaventa and cabin builder CWA will in future offer space for 86 cabins of eight people, a travel speed of 6 meters per second and a transport capacity of up to 2,000 people per hour.
Heavy equipment in use A 100-ton mobile crane with an 8 x 8 drive is used
for assembly work. This is supplemented by telescopic forklifts, scissor, mast and crawler lifts. Beck points out: “The crane work alone takes around six weeks.” There are also helicopter flights for the removal of support heads — a logistical challenge at high altitude and within tight time windows.
Working in high-alpine terrain
The location above the clouds demands a lot from the experts from Bau-Trans. “In addition to the short construction season, there are primarily changes in weather and limited accessibility. This requires precise planning and maximum flexibility. At the same time, this project impressively demonstrates how versatile our team and equipment can be used,” emphasizes Beck.
Looking at the winter season
Work on the stations is ongoing until autumn. This is followed by commissioning and system integration by the manufacturer. From the 2025/26 winter season, the new aft gondola will provide guests with a modern, powerful connection between Crap Masegn, Fuorcla and Vorab. With an investment of around 24 million Swiss francs, the Weisse Arena Group is focusing on comfort, efficiency and sustainability in alpine tourism — supported by the expertise of Bau-Trans.
