The Intelligent Apron from ADB SAFEGATE changes this. By extending the role of Safedock Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems (A‑VDGS) beyond arrivals, the Intelligent Apron brings automation, safety, and efficiency to departure operations through intelligent surface monitoring, decision support, and clear communication.
Connect: Bringing Clarity to Congested Aprons with Apron Manager
The apron often lacks quality surface surveillance due to radar blind spots, signal reflection problems caused by large terminal buildings and boarding bridges, and large apron layouts that exceed visual coverage by ramp controllers. Apron Manager utilizes the Safedock A-VDGS as a gapfiller surveillance tool, providing real time position reporting to surface surveillance systems where they are blind.
This information is shared with surface surveillance and airport operations systems, delivering:
- Accurate aircraft position reporting
- Improved situational awareness for ramp control
- A clearer, real‑time picture of apron activity
The result is reliable surveillance exactly where it’s needed most: on the apron.
Predict: Intelligent Decision Support for Pushback and Departure
With clear surface surveillance, the Apron Manager is able to monitor aircraft and equipment moving on the apron to identify potential issues in advance. As an aircraft approaches its Target Off‑Block Time (TOBT), the system:
- Monitors taxi lanes and service roads behind the stand
- Detects conflicting traffic or obstructions
- Identifies safe pushback windows in advance
Apron Manager then informs controllers when conditions are clear, creating a proactive safety net that has never before existed on the apron.
Act: Communicate Clearly and Consistently with Automatic, Intuitive Instructions
The Intelligent Apron aids controllers with more than just information, it also acts to ensure that the operation continues smoothly. With a single command, controllers can send automatic, intuitive instructions directly to pilots via the Safedock A VDGS pilot display, including:
- Where to push back
- Which direction to face
- When it is safe to proceed
- Which ground control frequency to contact
This eliminates ambiguity, reduces radio congestion, and ensures instructions are delivered clearly and consistently - every time.
The introduction of Axon Adapative Lighting is a game changer with the new Service Road Safety System and Follow-the-Green lighting ensuring that pilots and drivers on the apron are controlled seamlessly.
From Arrival Guidance to End to End Departure Support
By extending A-VDGS from arrival guidance to departure surveillance, prediction, and action, the Intelligent Apron enables airports to improve pushback safety, reduce delays, and increase capacity.
Departure efficiency is no longer managed manually - it is designed into the apron itself.
Discover how ADB SAFEGATE’s Intelligent Apron solutions can ease your airport or airline’s departures. Contact us today to learn more about integrating smart apron technology for safer, more efficient apron operations.
