Project date: November 20, 2022
When Installation Services, Inc. (ISI) in Chicago needed to replace a worn out communications antenna atop one of the country’s tallest skyscrapers, the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), ISI contracted the Siller team and its Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane. Siller was to disengage the defective unit into two pieces, lift it from the rooftop, and then place it within a flatbed truck at ground level for disposal. The team would eventually reinstall a new antenna, at a later date.
In addition to the sheer height of the building and weight of the two pieces extracted, Siller had to work within tight commercial tolerances, surrounding buildings in a densely-populated commercial district, and city regulations. According to James Vogel, president at ISI, Siller was used because of its past experiences in heavy-lift operations in tight quarters, its seasoned pilots, and its safety record. Although it was just 14 degrees the morning of the operation, there was no wind to complicate the mission, and the team was blessed with some sunshine.
“We contracted with Siller because of their reputation, their safety record, and past lifts completed safely, on time – with no issues. Siller’s professionalism, eyes on safety, and making sure everything is done properly, is second to none.”
James Vogel
President, Installation Services, Inc.
