An adapted coal-cutting machine in which the picks of the cutter chain are replaced by loading flights. The machine hauls itself along the face, the jib leading, by means of an anchored rope. The flights push the prepared coal up a ramp onto the face conveyor, and on their return path to the back of the prepared coal; they fold back and then open up for coal loading as they emerge at the end of the jib. It requires well-prepared coal for successful operation, and will load only in one direction; consequently it has to be flitted back along the coal face. The jib can be swung into line with the body for flitting.