A320
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 238; Flight Crew Total 16000; Flight Crew Type 3000
Conflict Ground Conflict; Critical
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Airport; Human Factors
We received a very late gate change. The ACARS started flashing as we were clearing the active runway. Ground was confused as were we. We had just checked 10 mins prior and were going to C-18. Now Ops wanted us at E-14. We had to verify. Finally we taxied to the south ramp area and had to await outbound aircraft. Once clear we started in; approaching E-14; the guidemen were not in position and there were numerous vehicles/personnel between us and the gate. We stopped. Airport maintenance was painting signs on the tarmac directly in our required path to the gate. We sat. Finally; the lead went over to the mx personnel to move; they did. Then had to get other vehicle including a fuel truck to move to give us clearance to taxi in.After several minutes; two wing walkers arrived and started out to their positions. With them moving; the lead gave me guidance signals to start in. I complied looking mostly ahead and right (fuel truck; ground maintenance truck; numerous personnel were all on the right). All of the sudden a Ford Pickup came into my peripheral view from the left. I hit the brakes quickly not wanting to hit the truck nor rock my passengers. We came within 10 ft of the truck per my estimate; he disappeared under the nose. Ramp Tower was informed but didn't see anything per usual.
A320 Captain reports receiving a gate change after landing then having to wait for outbound traffic before being cleared in. Before reaching the gate; airport personnel painting lines on the ramp along with their vehicles are blocking further progress. Once vehicles and personnel are clear and wing walkers have arrived; the Marshall directs the aircraft into the gate only to have to stop abruptly to avoid a truck dashing through the gap.