Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has become the first airport to order ADB SAFEGATE’s latest visual docking guidance system (A-VDGS).
The airport has ordered 42 Safedock FleX systems to replace older systems used on Terminal B gates. This is part of an airport-wide technology upgrade aimed at improving operational performance and the passenger experience.
The new systems are scheduled to be delivered later this year.
Safedock FleX uses infrared laser and 3D scanning for efficient and safe automated aircraft docking. This technology enables faster aircraft parking, which also reduces fuel use and emissions.
The unit’s camera has double the scanning area as DFW’s previous system to accommodate aircraft docking in complex gate layouts. It also provides multiple displays to support tight parking and optimise views for pilots and ground crew.
The full-colour LED displays will provide intuitive docking guidance to pilots and communicate critical Ramp Information Display System (RIDS) messages to ground crew during aircraft turnaround.
Mike Youngs, Vice President – Information Technology Services at DFW, said:Our goal is to use advanced technologies, integrated systems and data to create a more consistent and efficient airside operation to better serve air travellers and our airline partners. The Safedock A-VDGS not only provides smoother aircraft parking, but the systems are uniquely capable of collecting and sharing data to further improve operations.
DFW and ADB SAFEGATE are also collaborating on a Digital Apron pilot programme that will use the Safedock FleX onboard camera to enable more predictive AI-powered apron operations.
As the world’s-second busiest airport and the largest carbon neutral airport, DFW relies on such technologies to optimise its operations.
Nick Haines, VP Americas for ADB SAFEGATE said:We are very pleased to play a role in bringing innovative technologies to future proof apron operations at DFW. Our next generation A-VDGS are key to our Digital Apron offering of advanced technologies that includes data analysis, artificial intelligence and video surveillance to achieve efficient, safe and sustainable, all-weather airport operations.
