Visual Confirmation of Voice Takeoff Clearance (VICON) Operational Evaluation: Volume I

Vol. I  An operational evaluation was conducted at Bradley International Airport, Windsor Locks, Connecticut, to . test an experimental visual light system which would confirm the voice takeoff clearance issued by the controller. The effort was in response to the tragic incident which occurred in March of 1977 on Tenerife Island where two Boeing 747's collided because of an apparent misunderstanding of air traffic control verbal instructions. This experimental system called Visual Confirmation of Voice Takeoff Clearance (VICON) consisted of a cluster of three PAR56 lamps with green lenses which were installed at all departure points on the airport with the activation of each cluster controlled by the air traffic controller.  Results indicated that the VICON system equipment and components operated in a highly reliable fashion during the entire evaluation period. Data collected and analyzed by a contractor indicated that VICON was technically feasible; however, VICON did not demonstrate that it enhanced safety.