ASMGCS

ASMGCS, or Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System, is an integrated set of technologies used at airports to manage the movement of aircraft and ground vehicles on aprons, taxiways, and runways. The system aims to improve safety and efficiency by providing accurate surface surveillance, optimized routing, and automated or semi-automated control support to air traffic controllers.

ASMGCS typically comprises three functional layers. The surveillance layer gathers position data from surface sensors such as radar, multilateration, ADS-B, and other tracking systems to determine the precise location of aircraft and ground vehicles. The guidance layer computes optimal taxi routes, manages routing conflicts at intersections, and issues speed advisories. The control layer presents information to controllers and, where permitted, offers automated guidance and conflict resolution assistance. Integration with existing air traffic management data, weather information, and airport layout data is common.

Benefits of ASMGCS include enhanced situational awareness, reduced risk of runway incursions, shorter taxi times, lower fuel burn and emissions, and increased airport capacity. It supports more precise sequencing and separation on the surface and can enable remote or automated aspects of ground control in some implementations. Adoption varies by region and airport, with different vendors providing compatible solutions and standards developed by international bodies to promote interoperability.