Space Needle Opens First Otis Double-Deck, Panoramic Glass Elevator

Rhea-AI Summary

Otis (NYSE: OTIS) has unveiled its first double-deck, panoramic glass elevator at Seattle's Space Needle, marking a significant milestone in their modernization project. The new elevator, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows, can transport up to 46 passengers and reaches the top in under 50 seconds. This installation is part of a larger project to modernize all three elevators at the iconic landmark.

The project showcases Otis's advanced technology, including SkyRise™ sightseeing elevators and North America's first SkyMotion™ 800 machines. The custom-built cabs, designed by an aerospace manufacturer, reflect Seattle's innovative spirit. This modernization is part of the Space Needle's Century Project renovation, which began in 2017, continuing Otis's long-standing relationship with the Space Needle since installing the original elevators in 1962.

Positive

• First North American installation of Otis's advanced SkyMotion™ 800 machines
• Increased passenger capacity with double-deck elevators carrying up to 46 people each
• Continuation of long-term relationship with Space Needle since 1962
• Part of larger modernization project demonstrating ongoing business growth

Negative

• None.

Elevator is first of three on site to be modernized with new Otis elevators

SEATTLE, May 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new, double-deck glass elevator from Otis opened for its first rides to passengers Friday as part of a new experience at the iconic Space Needle. Visitors to the tower can now soar above Seattle in a floor-to-ceiling glass, double-deck elevator, completely transforming the trip to the top. It's the first of three elevators on site that Otis (NYSE: OTIS), the world's leading elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation and service company, will modernize.

The new, custom-built elevators will allow more people to fulfill the Space Needle's mission of bringing visitors to new heights for breathtaking views of Seattle, the Puget Sound and nearby Mount Rainier. This continues the longstanding relationship between the Space Needle and Otis. Otis installed the original elevators in 1962, modernized them in 1992, and has maintained them throughout.

"The new elevator is more than a way up, it's a symbol of where we're headed," said Ron Sevart, Space Needle President & CEO. "This reinvestment reflects our commitment—to our Guests, our Team Members, and our community—to ensure the Space Needle remains a symbol of Seattle's innovative spirit for generations to come."

"Otis is proud to be the company that iconic global projects like the Space Needle choose to safely transport visitors to breathtaking views and share once-in-a-lifetime experiences," said Joseph Armas, Otis President for the U.S. and Canada. "From day one, Otis has built, installed and continuously serviced the equipment at the Space Needle. Each year, we safely move more than 1 million people here."

Advanced Technology

When complete, the Space Needle will feature three modernized Otis SkyRise™ sightseeing elevators with the company's most advanced controllers and drives. Two double deck elevators will be able to move up to 46 passengers each in the custom-built cabs. The third elevator will remain a single deck. All will feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows that immerse visitors in the world around them as they rise 520 feet into the sky in less than 50 seconds.

This is the first project in North America, and only the second in the world, to receive Otis' most powerful high rise SkyMotion™ 800 machines, designed to provide a smooth, efficient ride in the world's tallest buildings.

The custom elevator cabs, designed by an aerospace manufacturer and built and assembled by Otis on site, reflect the vision of the Space Needle to capture humanity's space-age aspirations with the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of Seattle.

This elevator modernization project is part of the Space Needle's Century Project renovation, which started in 2017, and included Otis installing a material lift and a custom-built accessibility lift on the upper floors of the tower.

To learn more about Otis products and services, visit www.otis.com.

About Otis
Otis gives people freedom to connect and thrive in a taller, faster, smarter world. The global leader in the manufacture, installation and servicing of elevators and escalators, we move 2.4 billion people a day and maintain approximately 2.4 million customer units worldwide – the industry's largest Service portfolio. You'll find us in the world's most iconic structures, as well as residential and commercial buildings, transportation hubs and everywhere people are on the move. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 72,000 people strong, including 44,000 field professionals, all committed to manufacturing, installing and maintaining products to meet the diverse needs of our customers and passengers in more than 200 countries and territories. To learn more, visit www.otis.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook @OtisElevatorCo.

About the Space Needle
Built as the centerpiece and inspiration for the 1962 Seattle World's Fair, the Space Needle has since become a part of the Seattle experience and the globally recognized icon for the city. The Space Needle's recent $100 million renovation added more than 176 tons of glass to the structure offering unparalleled views of Seattle and introduced The Loupe—the world's first and only revolving glass floor. Open year round, the Space Needle hosts more than a million visitors per year. For more information visit: spaceneedle.com/press

Media Contact:
Katy Padgett
+1-860-674-3047
kathleen.padgett@otis.com

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SOURCE Otis Worldwide Corporation

FAQ

What new features does the Otis elevator at Space Needle offer?

The new Otis elevator features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, double-deck design carrying up to 46 passengers, and advanced SkyRise™ technology reaching 520 feet in under 50 seconds.

How many elevators will Otis modernize at the Space Needle?

Otis will modernize three elevators at the Space Needle, with two being double-deck elevators and one remaining single deck.

What is special about the SkyMotion™ 800 machines at Space Needle?

The Space Needle installation marks the first project in North America and only the second worldwide to use Otis's most powerful high-rise SkyMotion™ 800 machines, designed for the world's tallest buildings.

How long has Otis been providing elevators for the Space Needle?

Otis has maintained a relationship with the Space Needle since 1962, when they installed the original elevators. They previously modernized them in 1992 and have maintained them throughout.

How many passengers can the new Otis double-deck elevators transport?

Each of the new double-deck elevators can transport up to 46 passengers in custom-built cabs.