Hiab, a global leader in smart and sustainable load handling solutions, has successfully delivered the installation of two new cranes on one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks, the London Eye.
The installation was carried out over a five-day period in mid-March, with all work completed during overnight operations while the London Eye remained fully operational. The upgrade marks a key milestone in the ongoing maintenance and future-proofing of the observation wheel that stands 135 metres above the Thames. The new cranes replace the original HIAB units that had been in operation since the attraction opened in 2000, bringing enhanced performance, reliability and efficiency to a critical part of the structure.
Installed on bespoke pedestals on the north side of the wheel, with one crane positioned waterside and the other landside, the new units are designed to minimise downtime and support consistent operation in a demanding environment.
The HIAB cranes will play a central role in supporting engineering activity across the structure, from lifting and positioning heavy components to assisting with capsule maintenance and work on mechanical and electrical systems. Because much of this work is carried out at height and within restricted spaces, these cranes provide a necessary alternative to traditional access methods. The cranes also support the London Eye’s annual New Year’s celebrations, enabling the installation of around 2,000 fireworks directly onto the wheel.
The cranes are HIAB eX.232 HIPRO E-5 models, each fitted with personnel baskets and built to meet EN 280 standards for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP). Equipped with HIAB’s SPACEevo control system, electro-hydraulic technology and an Olsbergs V200 valve, they deliver precise, responsive performance. Each unit also includes a 2-tonne hoist and an interlock system that prevents the wheel from rotating unless the cranes are safely stowed.
Operators use HIAB’s CombiDrive 4 remote control system, allowing them to work directly from the basket with full control. The cranes are further supported by a HIAB ProCare maintenance package, ensuring long-term reliability.
John Abbott, Sales Executive at Hiab said, “The HIAB eX.232 HIPRO E-5 provides a fully certified MEWP solution, combining advanced control systems with built-in redundancy. This enables smooth, coordinated operation and gives engineers a reliable system to carry out their work with confidence.”
Paul Dalton, Head of Technical Services at The London Eye, added, “HIAB was selected for its reputation for reliability, engineering quality and advanced safety features. The cranes give our engineers the flexibility and control needed to maintain the structure and ensure a world-class experience for visitors.”
Delivered in partnership with Nick Sampson Mechanical Engineering Services, the project followed nearly 12 months of planning and was executed using a Liebherr mobile crane. During one of the most technically demanding stages, the crane was carefully manoeuvred through the wheel’s spokes within extremely tight tolerances, while the structure was slowly rotated into position, requiring close coordination across all teams.
This latest upgrade supports the continued operation of the London Eye, which attracts around 3.5 million visitors each year.
