A ladder loading system (100) includes a base frame (120) and a stowage frame (130), wherein the stowage frame (130) is rotatable relative to the base frame (120). The stowage frame (130) and base frame (120) are connected at a least one pivot (102) having a main pivot axis. The ladder loading system includes a linkage mechanism (140). The linkage mechanism includes an idler link (142) that rotates about an idler axis (144). The linkage mechanism also includes a coupling means for coupling the idler link (142) to the stowage frame. That is, the rotation of the idler link (142) is linked to the rotation of the stowage frame in a master and slave relationship. Suitably, due to the operation of the ladder loading system, rotation of the stowage frame drives rotation of the idler link (142) about the idler axis (144). The linkage mechanism further includes a control member connected between the idler link (142) and stowage frame (130). Here, the control member is arranged so that rotation of the stowage frame causes the control member to expand and compress. The control member is arranged so that said expansion and compression exerts a controlling force on the rotation of the stowage frame.