2023-12 · NASA ASRS report 2064673
B737-800 flight crew reported docking guidance system; DGS; failure resulted in overshooting stop point and aircraft unintended movement.
Turned in to gate XX at ZZZ. The (DGS) Docking Guidance System said 737 8. Two wing walkers were present. We continued toward the parking spot with lateral guidance from the DGS and the #2 engine shut down. We approached the parking spot and the Captain (CA) was waiting for the distance countdown but it never appeared. Instead we got a message that said blocked". We stopped; assuming that something or someone had blocked the DGS view. In reality we had overshot the stopping point with no other indication from the DGS. People were approaching the aircraft so I shut down the #1 engine for safety. The CA was holding the brake but released some of the pedal pressure and the aircraft started to roll back. We didn't notice immediately due to our perspective and position. After a few feet the CA noticed and applied more pressure; stopped the aircraft and set the brake. The flight attendants mentioned to us that similar overshoots had happened with them at that particular gate on previous occasions. After deplaning; the CA called Ramp Control and suggested they turn off the DGS. THE CA then called the duty chief at dispatch and reported the incident. Failure of ZZZ Gate XX DGS to stop the aircraft in its appropriate position. ZZZ Gate XX DGS needs to be inspected."
Turned in to gate XX at ZZZ. The Docking Guidance System (DGS) said Aircraft X. Two wing walkers were present. We continued toward the parking spot with lateral guidance from the DGS and the #2 engine shut down. We approached the parking spot and I was waiting for the distance countdown but it never appeared. Instead I got a message that said blocked". We stopped; assuming that something or someone had blocked the DGS view. In reality we had overshot the stopping point with no other indication from the DGS. People were approaching the aircraft so I shut down the #1 engine for safety. I was holding the brake but released some of the pedal pressure and the aircraft started to roll back. I didn't notice immediately due to my perspective and position. After a few feet I noticed and applied more pressure; stopped the aircraft and set the brake. The flight attendants mentioned to us that similar overshoots had happened with them at that particular gate on previous occasions. After deplaning; I called Ramp Control and suggested they turn off the DGS. I then called the duty chief at dispatch and reported the incident.Cause: Faulty DGS.Suggestions: Equipment taken out of service until repaired."
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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