aerial ladder

American  

noun

1. an extensible ladder used for reaching heights, especially from a hook-and-ladder truck.

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aerial ladder British  

noun

1. Also called: turntable ladder.  a power-operated extending ladder mounted on a fire engine

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Example Sentences

A swift-water rescue team deployed a helicopter, lowered inflated firehoses and positioned an aerial ladder to allow responders to secure the man and bring him to safety before transporting him to a hospital for evaluation.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2026

Atop the aerial ladder of a bright red fire engine, a firefighter wrangles a hose.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2025

Fire crews were unable to use their aerial ladder to deal with the blaze because it was not safe to do so in the stormy weather.

From BBC • Sep. 22, 2024

The developers have also agreed to provide funding for an aerial ladder truck for the Yucaipa Fire Department, he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 14, 2024

Four fire engines were used in the rescue effort along with an aerial ladder platform.

From BBC • Aug. 16, 2023