THE AGL ENGINEERING CENTRE by Precision AGL Academy · Apron & Stand Guidance

VDGS: Visual Docking Guidance System & Stand Lead-In Lights

A VDGS helps a pilot align an aircraft with its stand and stop at the designated position. This guide covers VDGS and A-VDGS operation, components, stand lead-in guidance, MARS stands, installation, commissioning, maintenance and procurement.

Overview

Guiding Aircraft Into the Stand

A Visual Docking Guidance System (VDGS) assists pilots in aligning an aircraft with its assigned parking stand and stopping at the designated position.

The system can display guidance such as lateral alignment, distance to the stopping position, closing rate and a stop indication. Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems (A-VDGS) may also identify the intended aircraft type, provide sensor-based guidance and display additional safety information.

VDGS is particularly important at stands where accurate aircraft positioning is required because of passenger boarding bridges, fuel hydrants, fixed ground-service installations or other stand infrastructure.

VDGS is related to airport apron infrastructure, but it is distinct from Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) systems used for runway and taxiway visual guidance. Aircraft stand markings, stand lead-in guidance lights and VDGS may work together, but each has a different function.

This guide explains the VDGS operating concept, system components, stand lead-in guidance, installation, testing, maintenance and integration considerations.

Important: The actual system configuration, docking procedure, aircraft compatibility and acceptance requirements must follow the applicable aerodrome standards, approved airport design, equipment manufacturer's instructions and local operating procedures.
TERMINAL · GATE DOCKING GUIDANCE UNIT STOPPING POSITION AIRCRAFT OFF CENTRE 1 · OFF THE CENTRELINE←ALIGNMOVE TOWARD CENTRELINE12 m2 · ON THE CENTRELINE●ON CENTRELINECONTINUE · SLOW5 m3 · AT THE STOPPING POSITIONSTOP
Figure 1. A display on the stand that shows the pilot the centreline and the stopping position while taxiing in to a nose-in gate.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: What is docking guidance?
01 · Definition

What Is a VDGS Airport System?

A Visual Docking Guidance System is an airport visual aid that helps a pilot guide an aircraft into its assigned stand and reach the required stopping position.

The system provides visual information during the docking manoeuvre. Depending on its design, it may use passive visual indicators or active sensors and an electronic display.

A VDGS generally provides two primary functions:

Azimuth guidance

Helps the pilot maintain the intended stand centreline.

Stopping guidance

Indicates the intended stopping position and helps the pilot bring the aircraft to a controlled stop.

An advanced system can provide additional information, including aircraft type, lateral displacement, distance to go, closing rate and emergency-stop indications. These functions are described in the EASA Easy Access Rules for Aerodromes, revised March 2026, particularly the provisions concerning visual and advanced visual docking guidance systems.

Why Is VDGS Required at Some Aircraft Stands?

Accurate stopping can be important where the aircraft must be positioned correctly relative to:

  • Passenger boarding bridges.
  • Fixed aircraft servicing installations.
  • Fuel hydrants.
  • Stand equipment and infrastructure.
  • Designated aircraft parking positions.
  • Multiple aircraft positions within a shared stand arrangement.

The need for VDGS depends on stand geometry, aircraft types, operating conditions, positioning accuracy and the availability of suitable alternative guidance methods.

VDGS is not a substitute for the airport's approved aircraft parking and apron operating procedures.

TERMINAL BUILDINGDOCKING GUIDANCESTOP POSITION LIGHTSFLOODLIGHT MASTLEAD-IN GUIDANCETAXILANE CENTRELINEHANDOVER POINTPLAN VIEW · ILLUSTRATIVE, NOT TO SCALE
Figure 2. At the stand, taxilane lighting hands over to a lead-in line, a stop position and docking guidance, all under floodlighting.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: Where the apron lighting meets the stand
02 · VDGS vs A-VDGS

VDGS and A-VDGS: What Is the Difference?

The terms VDGS and A-VDGS are related, but they do not always describe identical functionality.

A basic VDGS may provide azimuth and stopping guidance using indicators designed for the intended aircraft stand and operating conditions.

An Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System adds active guidance functions, commonly based on sensors and electronic processing.

VDGS Comparison

FeatureBasic VDGSAdvanced VDGS
Stand alignment guidanceProvided through the specified visual guidance arrangementMay use active sensing and electronic alignment information
Stopping-position indicationProvided by the specified indicator or guidance unitTypically integrated with active stopping guidance
Aircraft type identificationDepends on system designMay identify or display the selected aircraft type
Distance-to-stop informationDepends on the systemCommonly displayed
Closing-rate informationDepends on the systemMay provide continuous closing-rate guidance
Lateral displacement informationMay use a passive alignment displayMay provide sensor-based lateral displacement
Malfunction indicationRequired features depend on the applicable system specificationIncludes provisions for indicating that the system is unavailable or unserviceable
ConfigurationDepends on the required stand and operating arrangementMay require aircraft-type selection and configuration data
IntegrationDepends on project requirementsMay include additional monitoring and interface functions
This comparison is general. The actual capabilities must be confirmed using the selected system's technical documentation and approved configuration.

What Does an Advanced VDGS Display?

Depending on the equipment, an A-VDGS display may show the following information:

  • Aircraft type or model selected for docking.
  • Guidance indicating whether the aircraft is aligned with the stand centreline.
  • Direction of correction where lateral displacement is detected.
  • Distance remaining to the stopping position.
  • Closing rate or approach-speed information.
  • A warning when the intended stop position is reached or passed.
  • An emergency STOP indication.
The required functionality depends on the applicable system specification. Not every VDGS has every feature listed above.
1 · PROFILE CHECK — FRONT VIEW FROM THE SCANNER 2 · FROM TYPE TO DECISION MATCHMISMATCH NOSE HEIGHTIN TOLERANCEFUSELAGE WIDTHIN TOLERANCEENGINE POSITIONIN TOLERANCEWINGSPANIN TOLERANCE NOSE HEIGHTIN TOLERANCEFUSELAGE WIDTHIN TOLERANCEENGINE POSITIONOUTWINGSPANOUT MATCH → GUIDANCE CONTINUES MISMATCH → ALERT DASHED GOLD = STORED PROFILE AND TOLERANCE BAND ONLY FEATURES OUTSIDE THE BAND FAIL THE CHECK 1 · SELECTEXPECTED TYPETYPE 2 · MEASURENOSE AND ENGINES 3 · COMPAREVS STORED PROFILE 4 · DECIDEMATCH OR ALERT WRONG TYPE → WRONG STOP POINT THE PILOT STAYS RESPONSIBLE FOR A SAFE STOP EXPECT A TYPE · MEASURE · COMPARE · CONTINUE ON A MATCH, ALERT ON A MISMATCH
Figure 3. The stop point is set for one type. Before the display can be trusted, the system has to be sure the aircraft rolling in is the one it expects.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: How does a VDGS recognise the aircraft type and check its profile?
03 · Operation

How Does a Visual Docking Guidance System Work?

A VDGS supports the aircraft's movement into the stand by presenting visual guidance to the pilot.

For an advanced system, sensors may determine the aircraft's position and movement relative to the stand. The system processes that information and updates the display according to its design.

The docking process can be understood in several stages.

01

Aircraft Acquisition

Where an active sensing system is installed, the system detects or acquires the approaching aircraft within its specified operating conditions.

The system must identify the aircraft or establish the relevant guidance information according to its approved design.

The assigned aircraft type and stand configuration must be correct before docking guidance is used.

02

Aircraft Type Verification

Some A-VDGS installations require selection or confirmation of the intended aircraft type or model.

This is important where different aircraft types use the same stand but have different stopping positions or clearance requirements.

An incorrect aircraft selection can result in misleading stopping guidance. The verification process must follow the airport's approved docking procedure.

03

Azimuth Alignment

The system provides information that helps the pilot maintain the designated stand centreline.

Depending on the design, this may use a visual alignment display, lateral displacement information or directional correction indications.

The display must be positioned and configured so that the intended user can interpret it clearly throughout the relevant manoeuvre.

04

Distance and Closing-Rate Guidance

An advanced system may display the distance remaining to the stop position and the aircraft's closing rate.

This information helps the pilot regulate the aircraft's movement as it approaches the designated stop point.

The usable operating conditions, display behaviour and performance limits must be defined for the selected equipment.

05

Stop Indication

At the designated stopping position, the system provides the specified STOP indication or equivalent stopping signal.

Some systems use colour changes to communicate whether the aircraft may continue or must stop. Under the EASA visual docking guidance provisions, green can indicate that the aircraft may proceed and red that the stop point has been reached, with a possible intermediate warning colour shortly before stopping where the system uses colour-change guidance.

The actual display convention must be understood from the applicable system documentation and airport procedure.

06

Emergency Stop or System Failure

Where the system provides an emergency STOP function, that indication must be treated according to the approved operating procedure.

Advanced systems also require a means to indicate when the system is unavailable or unserviceable. If valid guidance is not available, personnel must follow the airport's prescribed method for suspending or completing the docking activity.

Never assume that an inactive display or a missing indication means that the aircraft may continue.
1 · PLAN VIEW — THE SCAN FIELD 2 · FROM ECHO TO GUIDANCE LASER SCANNER IN THE DISPLAY HOUSING SCAN FIELD ECHOES OF THE NOSE AND WINGS GIVE THE AIRCRAFT PROFILE VEHICLE IN THE FIELD NOT AN AIRCRAFT OFFSET FROM ECHOES 1 · CAPTUREAIRCRAFT ENTERS ZONE 2 · TRACKSCANS FOLLOW IT 3 · COMPUTEOFFSET + DISTANCE 4 · DISPLAYSTEER AND STOP SENSOR LOSS → CLEAR FAULT INDICATION NOT A FROZEN LAST POSITION SCAN THE STAND · FIND THE AIRCRAFT · FOLLOW IT · TURN RANGE AND ANGLE INTO GUIDANCE
Figure 4. There is no marshaller and no mirror. A sensor finds the aircraft, follows it, and turns what it measures into the offset and the distance the display shows.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: How does a VDGS detect the aircraft with a laser or sensor?
04 · Components

Main Components of an Airport VDGS

The component arrangement varies by manufacturer and system type. A typical installation may include the following elements.

ComponentFunction
Visual display unitPresents docking and stopping guidance to the pilot
Position-sensing equipmentDetects relevant aircraft position or movement where active sensing is used
Sensor assemblyMay use laser scanning, camera-based sensing or other specified technology
Processing and control unitProcesses system inputs and produces the required guidance outputs
Aircraft-type or stand-selection interfaceSupports the approved configuration for the stand and intended aircraft
Stand configuration dataDefines relevant stand geometry, aircraft types and stopping-position information
Power supplyProvides the required electrical supply to the system
Communication interfacesSupport specified connections to operator interfaces or airport systems
Monitoring and fault reportingProvides relevant status, fault and maintenance information where supported
Mounting arrangementPositions the display and sensors for the required visibility and coverage
Emergency stop or safety interfaceSupports the defined stop function where included in the approved system
The display, sensing and control components may be combined into one cabinet or distributed among several devices. Confirm the actual arrangement from the system drawings and manufacturer documents.
1 · PLAN VIEW — DISTANCE TO THE STOP POINT 2 · WHAT THE DISPLAY SHOWS STOP POINT · THIS TYPE OTHER TYPE · OTHER POINT VDGS DISPLAY BESIDE THE AZIMUTH UNIT NOSE GEAR DISTANCE STILL TO GO NOSE-IN STAND FAR20 M TO GO CLOSING8 M TO GO CLOSE2 M · EASE OFF STOPAT THE STOP POINT GREEN TO PROCEED · RED TO STOP DISTANCES ARE EXAMPLES ONLY MEASURE THE DISTANCE · SHOW THE CLOSING RATE · THE PILOT SLOWS · STOP AT THE RIGHT POINT
Figure 5. The second half of docking guidance. The display shows where this aircraft must stop, how far there is still to go, and when it has arrived.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: How does a VDGS show the stopping position and distance?
05 · Stand Lead-In

Aircraft Stand Lead-In Guidance

Aircraft stand lead-in guidance helps the pilot follow the intended route into the parking stand.

It may include painted stand centreline markings, stand identification signs, aircraft stand manoeuvring guidance lights and VDGS indications.

These elements complement each other but perform different functions.

5.1 Stand Lead-In Markings

Stand lead-in markings identify the intended path toward the aircraft parking position.

Their layout must account for the stand geometry, aircraft types, turning requirements and the intended stopping positions.

Continuous or broken lead-in markings may be used for different stand arrangements. For example, the Delhi aerodrome information published by AAI describes different stand lead-in markings for selected Multiple Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) arrangements.

The markings must be interpreted together with the approved stand layout and the applicable aerodrome procedures.

5.2 Aircraft Stand Manoeuvring Guidance Lights

Aircraft stand manoeuvring guidance lights are separate visual aids that can help guide aircraft along the lead-in, turning and lead-out portions of a stand route, where provided.

The EASA aerodrome specifications distinguish these lights from VDGS. In the referenced provisions, manoeuvring guidance lights other than those indicating a stop position are fixed yellow lights; lights used to indicate a stop position are fixed red lights. The detailed installation requirements depend on the applicable specification.

Stand lead-in guidance lights are therefore not simply another name for the VDGS display.

5.3 VDGS Versus Stand Lead-In Lights

FeatureVDGSStand lead-in guidance lights
Primary purposeProvides alignment and stopping guidanceHelps visually define the aircraft's path into or through the stand
Main informationMay provide alignment, distance, closing rate and stop indicationsProvides a visible route or manoeuvring reference
Aircraft-type informationMay be supported by advanced systemsNot normally the primary function of the lights
Stop indicationProvided by the specified docking display or indicatorDedicated stop-position lights may be provided where specified
TechnologyDisplay, sensor and control equipment depending on systemInstalled visual lighting elements
Design referencesVDGS and A-VDGS requirementsAircraft stand manoeuvring guidance-light requirements and approved layout
A complete aircraft stand arrangement may use markings, lights and VDGS together. The design must provide coherent, unambiguous guidance without conflicting indications.
1 · PLAN VIEW — AIRCRAFT OFF THE STAND CENTRELINE 2 · WHAT THE DISPLAY SHOWS STOP POSITION STAND CENTRELINE VDGS DISPLAY ON THE CENTRELINE, AHEAD PILOT’S SIGHT LINE OFFSET AIRCRAFT CENTRELINE NOSE-IN STAND LEFT OF LINESTEER RIGHT ON THE LINEHOLD THIS LINE RIGHT OF LINESTEER LEFT GREEN ON THE LINE · RED OFF IT THE PILOT STEERS TOWARD THE ARROWS MEASURE THE OFFSET · SHOW THE CORRECTION · THE PILOT STEERS · DISPLAY SHOWS CENTRED
Figure 6. The lateral half of docking guidance. The display shows which way to steer to reach the stand centreline, then tells the pilot when to hold it. Colours and symbols shown are illustrative; the actual display convention depends on the system and the airport procedure.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: What is the azimuth guidance principle in a VDGS?
06 · Installation

VDGS Installation and Location Considerations

The location of the VDGS display and sensing equipment is important because the pilot must be able to interpret its indications during the docking manoeuvre.

Placement should be developed using the stand geometry, intended aircraft types, viewing angles and operational requirements.

6.1 Display Location

Consider the following factors when locating the guidance unit:

  • Extension of the designated stand centreline.
  • Visibility from the intended cockpit viewing position.
  • Guidance continuity from the lead-in markings and any manoeuvring guidance lights.
  • Clear interpretation of left/right alignment indications.
  • Visibility of both alignment and stopping information.
  • Required viewing conditions for the aircraft types using the stand.
  • Mounting on a terminal building, pier, column or other approved support.
  • Physical protection and access for maintenance.
The EASA specification indicates that the azimuth unit should normally be located on or close to the extension of the stand centreline ahead of the aircraft, with the signals visible throughout the docking manoeuvre and aligned at least for the pilot occupying the left seat. The detailed design should follow the governing criteria for the project.

6.2 Aircraft Types and Stand Geometry

The design should identify all aircraft types and models intended to use the stand.

Consider:

  • Aircraft dimensions and cockpit position.
  • Nose-wheel stopping position.
  • Stand centreline and approach path.
  • Passenger boarding bridge movement and range.
  • Fuel-hydrant and service-equipment locations.
  • Required aircraft clearances.
  • The use of multiple stopping positions.
  • Access for aircraft servicing vehicles.
  • Stand sharing and aircraft changeover arrangements.

For a stand serving multiple aircraft types, ensure the configured guidance and stopping positions correspond to the aircraft assigned to the stand.

6.3 Glare, Sunlight and Background Lighting

The system must remain sufficiently clear under its specified operating conditions.

Reflections from sunlight, nearby floodlights, illuminated signs, building surfaces or other light sources can reduce display conspicuity.

The installation design should therefore assess the display's visibility during day and night, its viewing angles, background brightness and potential glare or reflection.

This consideration is specifically addressed in the EASA aerodrome guidance for VDGS.

6.4 Weather and Environmental Conditions

The equipment must be suitable for the weather, visibility and ambient-light conditions in which it is intended to be used.

Review the manufacturer's specified operating limits and the airport's environmental conditions, including relevant temperature, moisture, wind, dust and contamination exposure.

The system must only be used within the operating conditions for which its performance is specified.

6.5 Installation Coordination

Coordinate the VDGS with other stand systems, including:

  • Aircraft stand markings and identification signs.
  • Stand lead-in guidance lights.
  • Apron floodlighting.
  • Passenger boarding bridges.
  • Stand power and communication infrastructure.
  • Fuel hydrants and fixed servicing equipment.
  • Service roads and vehicle routes.
  • Drainage, underground utilities and civil works.
  • Maintenance access and replacement requirements.
The final mounting and cabling arrangement should be reflected in the approved drawings and equipment schedule.
TERMINAL BUILDINGVDGSAIRCRAFT STANDFLOODLIGHTMASTLEAD-IN LINEAPRON TAXILANE◄ TO TAXIWAYTO TAXIWAY ►PLAN VIEW · ILLUSTRATIVE, NOT TO SCALE
Figure 7. Floodlight masts light the stands, while taxilane lights and stand guidance lead each aircraft to its parking position.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: How is an apron lit?
07 · MARS

Multiple Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) and Multi-Position Stands

A Multiple Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) stand may accommodate different aircraft configurations using shared apron space and more than one designated stand centreline or stopping position.

This arrangement introduces additional coordination requirements for docking guidance.

Important MARS Considerations

  • Correct identification of the stand and intended aircraft position.
  • Accurate selection of the relevant centreline and stopping position.
  • Compatibility with the aircraft types assigned to each configuration.
  • Clear indication of which VDGS is active.
  • Prevention of conflicting guidance between different stand positions.
  • Coordination of shared displays or sensing equipment, where used.
  • Interlocking or other controls required by the approved system design.
  • Clear markings and stand identification.
  • Appropriate emergency stop arrangements.
  • Defined responsibility for changing stand configuration.

Where several VDGS units or centreline options are installed, the control arrangement must prevent conflicting active guidance in accordance with the approved design.

Do not assume that an aircraft can use any centreline shown on the pavement. The assigned stand configuration and authorized docking procedure determine the intended route and stop position.
08 · Electrical & Interfaces

VDGS Electrical Supply, Controls and Interfaces

VDGS power and control design depends on the selected system and installation.

The electrical and interface design should identify the supply requirements, protective devices, cable routes, communication interfaces and equipment isolation arrangements.

8.1 Electrical Design Considerations

  • Confirm the manufacturer's supply and operating requirements. A VDGS is normally an electronic unit fed from the stand’s low-voltage distribution rather than from a series AGL circuit; stand manoeuvring guidance lights may be on either arrangement, so confirm each from the approved design.
  • Provide the specified distribution and electrical protection.
  • Verify earthing and bonding requirements where applicable.
  • Select suitable cables and connections for the site conditions.
  • Coordinate routing with apron infrastructure and underground services.
  • Provide an appropriate isolation arrangement for maintenance.
  • Protect connections from the specified environmental exposure.
  • Provide the required circuit and asset identification.
  • Establish the required monitoring and fault reporting.
  • Ensure that the installation is documented in the approved drawings.

8.2 Control and Monitoring Interfaces

Depending on the project, a VDGS may provide information to, or exchange information with, specified airport control, monitoring or stand-management systems.

Possible interfaces depend on the equipment and project scope. They should not be assumed to be present in every installation.

The design should document:

  • Interface purpose and ownership.
  • Signal or communication requirements.
  • Relevant status and fault indications.
  • Configuration responsibility.
  • Emergency stop and system-unavailable behaviour, where applicable.
  • Integration test requirements.
  • Maintenance and troubleshooting responsibilities.

8.3 VDGS Is Not the Same as AGL or ALCMS

VDGS, AGL and an Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS) have different primary functions.

SystemPrimary function
VDGSAssists aircraft alignment and stopping at the parking stand
AGLProvides visual guidance for runway, taxiway and other airfield movement-area operations
ALCMSControls and monitors the relevant airport lighting systems according to its approved scope
Apron floodlightingIlluminates aircraft stands and associated working areas
These systems may share physical infrastructure or approved interfaces, but they should be separately identified in the design, maintenance responsibilities and equipment registers.
1 · IN — WHAT THE VDGS IS TOLD 2 · THE VDGS 3 · OUT — WHAT IT REPORTS STAND ALLOCATIONEXPECTED TYPE AND FLIGHT BOARDING BRIDGEPARKED OR NOT EMERGENCY STOPSTAFF STOP THE DOCKING VDGS SENSOR · DISPLAY · CONTROLLER DISPLAY GUIDES ONLY WHEN THE STAND IS READY FOR IT NO SIGNAL → DEFINED SAFE STATE NOT A GUESS AIRPORT OPERATIONSSTAND STATUS, RECORDS BRIDGE, GROUND STAFFDOCKED, AIRCRAFT STOPPED MONITORINGFAULT AND HEALTH 4 · THE STAND AROUND IT APRON AND STAND LIGHTINGGLARE AND DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS POWER AND NETWORKSUPPLY, LINKS, TIME LOSE A LINK → CLEAR INDICATION, THEN STAND PROCEDURES THE PILOT STAYS RESPONSIBLE FOR A SAFE STOP TOLD THE TYPE · CHECKS THE BRIDGE · OBEYS THE STOP · REPORTS THE STAND STATUS
Figure 8. A docking system is not a lone display. It is told what to expect, checks the stand is ready, obeys the stop, and reports back to the people running the apron.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: How does a VDGS connect to the stand and apron systems?
09 · Commissioning

VDGS Testing and Commissioning

Commissioning verifies that the installed system functions according to its approved configuration, the manufacturer's requirements and the project acceptance criteria.

Testing must be performed by appropriately authorized personnel using the specified procedure.

9.1 Pre-Commissioning Review

Pre-commissioning

9.2 Functional Verification Checklist

Test areaWhat to verify
Display visibilityGuidance is clear from the intended viewing positions under specified conditions
Aircraft-type configurationCorrect type or model is selected or detected as required by the system
Azimuth guidanceThe display provides the specified alignment information
Distance indicationThe stopping-distance information behaves as specified
Closing-rate indicationWhere provided, the indication meets the system requirements
Stop indicationThe system provides the specified stopping signal
Emergency stopThe required emergency-stop indication and associated function are verified
Unserviceable indicationThe required method of indicating an unavailable or faulty system operates correctly
Sensor performanceApplicable detection and tracking functions meet the specified requirements
Stop-position accuracyThe configured stop point is verified using the approved method
Stand configurationCorrect operation is confirmed for each approved stand and aircraft configuration
Interface functionsRequired control, status and monitoring interfaces operate as specified
Environmental operationPerformance is assessed under the conditions and procedure defined for the project
RecordsResults, deviations and required approvals are documented
Not every test applies to every VDGS. Use the approved test schedule and manufacturer procedures to define the actual commissioning scope.

9.3 Calibration and Stop-Position Verification

Where the system uses aircraft-type data, sensors or configured stopping positions, calibration and alignment must follow the specified procedure.

The acceptance process should verify that the configured guidance corresponds to the assigned stand and intended aircraft configuration.

Do not change aircraft-type offsets, stopping positions, sensor parameters or other safety-relevant configuration items without authorization and documented verification.

9.4 Acceptance and Handover

The handover documentation may include:

  • Approved drawings and equipment layout.
  • Installed equipment list and asset identifiers.
  • Manufacturer datasheets and manuals.
  • Configuration and setup records.
  • Test and commissioning reports.
  • Calibration or alignment records, where applicable.
  • Approved interface documentation.
  • Outstanding defect and punch-list records.
  • Training and maintenance information.
  • Warranty and service-support details.
  • Required acceptance and handover approvals.

A system should be accepted and placed into operational use only through the approved airport process.

10 · Maintenance

VDGS Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance helps preserve the performance and reliability of the guidance system.

The maintenance programme should follow the manufacturer's instructions, airport requirements, observed reliability and the system's specified operating conditions.

10.1 Routine Maintenance Checklist

Routine maintenance

Maintenance intervals should be defined by the approved maintenance programme and manufacturer guidance rather than assumed to be universal.

10.2 Common VDGS Fault Symptoms

SymptomPossible areas to investigate
Display blank or inactivePower supply, protection, equipment status or display hardware
Aircraft not acquiredSensor condition, configuration, environmental conditions or system fault
Wrong aircraft type displayedConfiguration, selection process or aircraft-identification function
Alignment indication abnormalSensor alignment, stand reference data or equipment issue
Distance indication unstableSensing, configuration, communication or system fault
Stop indication unavailableDisplay, control logic, configuration or equipment fault
Unserviceable indication activeRecorded system fault and manufacturer diagnostic information
Communication failureNetwork, interface, power or configuration issue
Intermittent faultPower, connection, environmental or electronic component concern
These are potential investigation areas, not definitive diagnoses. Follow the equipment-specific fault-finding procedure and do not alter safety-relevant configuration settings without authorization.
11 · Unserviceable VDGS

What Happens if VDGS Is Unserviceable?

An unserviceable VDGS may affect the airport's ability to guide aircraft into the stand using that system.

The response depends on the airport's approved apron operating procedure, the stand configuration and the availability of authorized alternative guidance.

Alternative methods may include a trained aircraft marshaller or another approved stand-guidance arrangement, where permitted by the applicable procedures.

General Response to a VDGS Failure

01

Record and report the fault through the airport's prescribed channel.

02

Identify the affected stand and equipment.

03

Establish the system status and relevant fault information.

04

Inform the responsible airport operational personnel.

05

Follow the approved procedure for stopping, suspending or continuing the docking operation under an authorized alternative method.

06

Arrange authorized maintenance and fault investigation.

07

Perform the required testing after corrective work.

08

Document the serviceability status and required operational handback.

Do not assume that a stand can continue using the same docking method when its VDGS is unavailable.
An example of an aerodrome-specific procedure appears in the AAI Aeronautical Information Publication for Delhi Airport, which identifies the stands provided with A-VDGS and notes the use of marshallers at certain stands where the system is not provided or has become unserviceable. This is an airport-specific example, not a universal operating instruction.
12 · Procurement

VDGS Procurement and Technical Evaluation Checklist

Selecting a VDGS involves more than comparing the purchase price of the display unit.

The system must suit the aircraft stand, aircraft types, operational conditions, installation constraints and required functionality.

Technical Evaluation

Technical evaluation

Commercial Evaluation

Compare supplier quotations on an equivalent scope, including:

  • Display and sensing equipment.
  • Controllers, software and licenses where applicable.
  • Stand configuration and aircraft data setup.
  • Mounting structures and installation accessories.
  • Power, communications and associated infrastructure.
  • Civil or electrical installation works where included.
  • Integration with existing systems.
  • Factory or site testing where specified.
  • Commissioning, calibration and acceptance.
  • Training, manuals and maintenance documentation.
  • Warranty, spare parts and after-sales support.
A complete technical and commercial comparison should identify deviations, exclusions and assumptions before supplier selection.
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FAQ

VDGS FAQ

Q1What does VDGS stand for?

VDGS stands for Visual Docking Guidance System. It provides visual guidance to assist aircraft alignment and stopping at a designated parking stand.

Q2What is the difference between VDGS and A-VDGS?

A-VDGS means Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System. An advanced system may use sensors and electronic processing to provide aircraft-type information, lateral displacement, distance-to-stop, closing-rate and emergency-stop indications.

Q3Is VDGS an airfield lighting system?

VDGS is an airport visual guidance system associated with aircraft docking. It is related to apron infrastructure but is distinct from runway and taxiway lighting systems. Its primary purpose is to guide the aircraft into the assigned stand and to the designated stopping position.

Q4What are airport stand lead-in lights?

Stand lead-in guidance lights help define the intended aircraft path or manoeuvring route where provided by the design. They are distinct from VDGS displays, which provide alignment and stopping guidance. Their exact arrangement and requirements must be checked against the approved stand layout and applicable standards.

Q5How does VDGS know where the aircraft should stop?

Depending on the system, the required stopping information may be based on configured stand and aircraft data, position sensing or a combination of these functions. The selected configuration must match the intended aircraft and stand arrangement.

Q6Does every VDGS identify the aircraft type automatically?

No. Aircraft identification and selection capabilities vary by system. Some installations may require aircraft-type selection or confirmation, while advanced systems may provide automated or sensor-based identification features.

Q7What does a red STOP indication mean?

The meaning and required response are defined by the system's display conventions and the airport's operating procedure. Where the system displays an emergency or required-stop indication, follow the applicable docking procedure and stop guidance.

Q8What happens when VDGS fails?

The fault must be reported and managed under the airport's approved procedure. A trained marshaller or other authorized alternative guidance method may be used where permitted. Do not assume the aircraft can continue using the same docking method with an unserviceable system.

Q9Is VDGS connected to ALCMS?

Not necessarily. VDGS and ALCMS have different primary functions. Any connection between VDGS and airport control, monitoring or other systems depends on the approved project architecture and specified interfaces.

Q10How often should VDGS be maintained?

The inspection and maintenance schedule depends on the equipment manufacturer's requirements, airport maintenance programme, environment and observed reliability. Use the approved schedule for the installed system.

Q11What is a docking guidance system at an airport?

A docking guidance system at an airport helps a pilot park an aircraft accurately at a stand. It shows the aircraft type, centreline guidance, distance to stop and a stop indication on a display unit ahead of the aircraft. A visual system uses displays and signals read by the pilot, while an advanced system also detects and identifies the aircraft.

Q12What is an aircraft docking guidance system, and how does a docking guidance system airport installation relate to stand lead-in lights?

An aircraft docking guidance system gives the final alignment and stopping information on the stand. Airport stand lead-in lights are a separate arrangement of lights on the apron that lead the aircraft from the taxilane to the stand before the docking unit takes over. The two are often used together, and the project design defines how.

Final Note

Clear, Coherent Stand Guidance

VDGS is an important part of aircraft stand guidance where accurate alignment and stopping are required. Reliable operation depends on correct stand configuration, clear display indications, suitable installation, verified performance and an effective maintenance process.

Stand markings, manoeuvring guidance lights and VDGS should work together without conflicting indications. The system must be used only within its specified operating conditions and in accordance with the airport's approved procedures.

This page provides general educational guidance. Final VDGS selection, design, installation, commissioning, maintenance and operational use must follow the applicable aerodrome standards, approved airport documents and manufacturer instructions.

Technical References

Verify the current applicable editions, amendments and local aerodrome requirements before using these references for an engineering or operational decision.
STAND AND GATE TERMINAL APRON GATE 12 GATE 13 12 13 12 NUMBER PAINTED ONTHE LEAD-IN LINE STAND SIGN(WHERE PROVIDED) STOP POSITION THREE SIGNS, ENLARGED 12 PAINTED ON LEAD-IN LINEFOR THE PILOT 12 STAND SIGNFOR PILOT AND CREW GATE 12 GATE SIGN · IN THE TERMINALFOR THE PASSENGER COLOURS AND LAYOUT SET BY THE AIRPORT AND STATE SCHEMATIC · STAND LAYOUT AND SIGN APPEARANCE ILLUSTRATIVE · NOT TO SCALE
Figure 9. The last step of a taxi route. A number on the pavement tells the pilot which stand to park on, and a number in the terminal tells the passenger which gate to walk to.AGL Visual Encyclopedia: What are stand and gate identification signs?
Field Insight

Engineering & Expert Notes

Configuration Must Match the Aircraft Types
Setup

Verify stop positions and aircraft profiles against the stand's intended use.

Confirm Alignment With the Stand Centreline
Alignment

Check against surveyed markings and recheck after resurfacing.

Test in Different Lighting Conditions
Visibility

Verify display visibility in daylight, night and adverse weather.

Check Interfaces With Building Systems
Integration

Test links to power, control and any airport systems.

Define What Happens When It Is Unserviceable
Fallback

Agree marshalling and procedures in advance.

Record Commissioning Data
Records

Keep settings and acceptance data for maintenance.

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