Originally Posted by
roybert
A4 Are you suggesting that the aircraft stop on the taxiway to have these clamped on sensor installed then taxi or tow to the terminal. Not a practical solution. Some one had the proper idea with a wing walker and eyes on task.
Although I have to agree that this 'should not happen' if people are paying attention the fact that they still do suggests that additional tech might be useful.
I don't believe additional sensors are needed, just think "ground ops collision avoidance" with each aircraft transmitting it's current (GPS assisted) speed, location and orientation.
A central computer could then issue alerts for AC to AC or AC to fixed obstacle proximity using a static map of the facility.
For towing tugs would also need to transmit/receive warnings.
The tug can probably determine (powered down) aircraft orientation using angle sensors at both ends of tow bar, that would still leave open someone entering incorrect AC type.
Of course unless every baggage cart and boarding ramp was active things could (and would) still go wrong.