TL;DR
After 47 years of service and recent mechanical issues, the famous double-peaked gondola at Flims-Laax-Falera is being replaced with a modern 8-person system, enhancing capacity and reliability for skiers.
Swiss Ski Resort Modernises Iconic Gondola System
Flims-Laax-Falera, a major Swiss ski resort, is upgrading its well-known gondola system. The existing lift, which has been in operation since 1978, is being replaced after a series of breakdowns last winter. This 47-year-old gondola, connecting Crap Masegn and the Vorab Glacier, experienced multiple failures in January 2024, causing significant inconvenience to skiers and riders.
The old system's unreliability became evident when it broke down three times within 10 days. In one instance, resort staff had to use snowcats and hiking routes to rescue stranded guests from the Fuorcla bowl. These incidents highlighted the need for a modern, more reliable transport system in this popular ski area.
The new gondola, set to open for the 2025-26 winter season, represents a substantial investment of CHF 24 million (about USD 28.7 million). Garaventa, a Swiss ropeway manufacturer, will construct the new eight-passenger system. While the route will remain the same, connecting Crap Masegn, Fuorcla, and the Vorab Glacier, the upgrade will significantly increase passenger capacity.
According to data from Skiresort.info, the new gondola will be able to transport 2,400 people per hour on the Crap Masegn section, up from the current 1,500. The Vorab section will see an increase from 1,500 to 2,000 people per hour. This boost in capacity is expected to reduce wait times and improve the overall experience for skiers and snowboarders.In an eco-friendly move, many components of the old system will be repurposed. Most of the existing towers and stations will be reused in the new setup. Additionally, the old gondola cabins will find new life through recycling efforts by German company ConceptGondel, which repurposes them for decorative use.
