Where the apron lighting meets the stand
At the stand, taxilane lighting hands over to a lead-in line, a stop position and docking guidance, all under floodlighting.
The aircraft stand lighting interface is the handover point where the apron taxilane lighting ends and the stand’s own lighting and guidance begin. The pilot follows the green taxilane centreline, then the yellow lead-in line into the stand.
At the stand, stand manoeuvring guidance lights and a visual docking guidance system help the pilot stop at the right position, marked by red stop position lights. Floodlights light the stand for the aircraft and the ground crew. Annex 14 recommends the guidance lights where a stand is used in poor visibility and adequate guidance is not provided by other means.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1What is the aircraft stand lighting interface?
The point where the apron taxilane lighting hands over to the lighting and guidance on an aircraft stand: the lead-in guidance lights, the stop position, the docking guidance system and the floodlighting that covers the stand.
Q2What are aircraft stand manoeuvring guidance lights?
Lights along the lead-in line and at the stop position that help a pilot position the aircraft on the stand. ICAO Annex 14 recommends them where a stand is used in poor visibility and adequate guidance is not provided by other means.
Q3What does a visual docking guidance system do?
It shows the pilot the aircraft's lateral position and the distance left to run, so the aircraft stops at the correct position. It is normally mounted at the head of the stand on the stand centreline.
Q4How do stand floodlights relate to the guidance lighting?
They do different jobs. Floodlights light the stand for the aircraft and the ground crew, and the guidance lights show the pilot where to go. The floodlights are aimed so they do not dazzle the pilot or apron staff.
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