VDGS
Pronunciation: V-D-G-S
Also written as: VDGS — Visual Docking Guidance System
Visual Docking Guidance System: an electronic display system that provides real-time guidance to pilots for parking an aircraft precisely on a stand.
Full Definition
A Visual Docking Guidance System (VDGS) is an electronic stand-mounted system that uses sensors—typically laser or infrared—to detect an approaching aircraft and display precise lateral and longitudinal guidance information to the flight crew on a stand-mounted screen, enabling the aircraft to stop accurately at the designated parking position without the need for a marshaller. VDGS displays typically show aircraft type confirmation, azimuth deviation, and distance to the stop bar. Editors should write the abbreviation as 'VDGS' (all caps) and the full form as 'Visual Docking Guidance System.' It is also referred to as an Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System (A-VDGS) when it includes additional features such as aircraft type recognition. Do not confuse with AGNIS (Azimuth Guidance for Nose-In Stands), an older analogue predecessor.
Usage
Usage note: Spell out in full on first use. Distinguish from the legacy AGNIS system. When 'A-VDGS' is used, confirm whether the 'Advanced' prefix is appropriate per the specific system referenced.
In Context
- "The VDGS at Stand 22 was calibrated for Code C aircraft and displayed an azimuth error of 0.5 metres." — Apron equipment maintenance record
- "Stands equipped with a VDGS do not require a marshaller for standard nose-in parking." — Ground handling operations manual