The Safedock can be automatic but due to health and safety should be programmed before each arrival and should have a TRM present next to the emergency stop to activate it should they need too.
However most of the time they walk off leaving the stand gulidance uncontrolled.
As for pilots looking out, this is very true all are capable of looking out however this shouldnt be down to the pilot alone as his view and perspective maybe not a reliable than that on the ground due to hismpostion.
I have attending incidents were aircraft hit equipment so im afraid pilots quite righlty need help to achieve a safe approach to the stand and its unfortunate accidents happen.
Cheers
Big
Last edited by BIGBATMAN; 8th May 2008 at 13:33.