Leading the way

ground Pinpoint marshaller accuracy using wands is required or by to an park automatic an airliner. guidance We are system either at guided larger to airports. the gate The by a VDGS (Visual Docking Guidance System) directs us to within inches of our destination by signalling to steer straight, left, right or to slow down. This system varies by country and even from airport to airport. Newer systems sense the aircraft as it approaches the gate and direct the pilot accordingly.

Captains at Air Canada taxi the airplane using a hand-operated tiller that pivots the nose wheel.

Next time you’re at the gate, look outside to see if the pilot nailed the centre of the yellow line.