APM Terminals-operated Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) has announced the arrival of a state-of-the-art Ship-to-Shore (STS) gantry crane, worth US$13 million.
This announcement comes as part of the development plan launched by Jordan’s ACT, following the extension of the concession agreement with the Maersk-owned port operator.
Nayef Hamidi Al-Fayez, Chief Commissioner at Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), explained that enhancing the capabilities of the terminal and incorporating modern, environmentally friendly equipment aligns with ASEZA’s 2024–2028 strategy, which aims to establish a ‘green port’ as part of a broader vision for a ‘green city’ in Aqaba.
He added that this approach seeks to reduce carbon emissions and rely on alternative energy sources for operations, thereby boosting Aqaba’s competitiveness as a regional logistics hub and reaffirming a commitment to sustainable growth in line with national and international climate goals.
Hussein Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation, said the arrival of the new STS crane represents a strategic achievement within the broader vision for developing Aqaba’s transportation and logistics ecosystem. He noted that it reflects the progress made under the extension of the concession agreement with APM Terminals until 2046.
The terminal’s newest arrival is a massive, state-of-the-art gantry crane built to handle the largest vessels in the industry: the crane has a quay-trolley height of 56 metres, an outreach of 71 metres and can lift up to 100 tons of cargo under hook.
Designed with the latest safety and automation technology, the crane comes with advanced scanners to survey the vessel’s shape, avoiding collisions during handling. It can also carefully position containers with precision, reduce swaying during lifts, and detect maintenance needs on its own. Operated remotely and supported by a full camera system, it helps boost productivity with a fully automated fly path.
