Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Confusion; Human-Machine Interface; Distraction
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Ground Event / Encounter Ground Equipment Issue
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Overrode Automation
Airport; Equipment / Tooling; Procedure
Overshot parking / stop 'T' at Gate. I can't recall another parking gate that utilizes the (automated parking system) system domestically that operates quite like [this] gate at ORD. There is a 10-7 page that mentions this fact. The 'fix' as mentioned in these pages tells pilots to be aware of the parking 'T-Mark'. Problem is; there are multiple markings. Another problem is the poor lighting and obscuration of the markings due to old paint; ramp dirt; e.g. tire markings; etc. Normally pilots are watching laterally for safety area infractions and the Captain for lateral lead-in line guidance and a 'countdown' in feet to a stopping point. The system at Gate X does not provide the countdown and simply changes from lateral guidance to 'STOP'. As mentioned this is wholly unlike other gates. And; the 10-7 page is; for lack of anything else; useless; as the Captain can't see the T-Mark. If the guidance system can't be modified to provide a 'countdown' then at all times a Marshaller should be at the front of the aircraft; wands in hand; providing guidance as if the guidance system doesn't exist.
An Air Carrier pilot reported the automated parking procedure at one of the gates does not give a countdown to stopping like at other gates and requires the crew to use pavement markings. The reporter stated poor lighting and obscured pavement markings make this gate's procedure unsafe and should staff a marshaller..