Hand Signals and Marshalling
Definition
Marshalling refers to the use of standardized hand signals by trained ground personnel (marshallers) to visually guide aircraft on the ground. It is especially important when radio contact is unavailable or impractical, such as during parking, towing, or engine shutdown. Hand signals serve as a non-verbal communication method between ground crew and flight crews, ensuring safe and precise aircraft movement on aprons and ramps.
Purpose
- Guide aircraft safely to parking positions or stands
- Assist pilots during engine start-up and shutdown
- Coordinate towing operations or pushbacks
- Serve as a backup or alternative to radio communication
- Provide visual instructions in noisy or congested ramp areas
Who Uses Hand Signals?
- Marshalling staff (e.g., ground handlers, ramp agents)
- Follow-Me vehicle operators
- Pushback teams
- Pilots (in small aircraft, responding with head nods or gestures)
Common Marshalling Signals (ICAO Standard)
| Action | Signal Description |
|---|---|
| Proceed straight ahead | Arms straight above shoulders, moving up and down in rhythm |
| Turn left | Right arm extended horizontally, left arm moving upward repeatedly |
| Turn right | Left arm extended horizontally, right arm moving upward repeatedly |
| Slow down | Arms down, palms facing down, moving up and down slowly |
| Stop | Arms crossed above the head in an X |
| Chocks inserted | Hands held above shoulders with thumbs extended and touching |
| Chocks removed | Hands held above shoulders, thumbs pointing outward |
| Cut engines | Right arm moved across the throat in a cutting motion |
| Brakes on / off | Arms above head: palms open and together = brakes on; palms open and apart = brakes off |
For a complete visual reference, pilots should consult ICAO Doc 9871 or local AIP ground handling guidelines.
Pushback and Towbar Coordination
During pushback, a headset operator may communicate via intercom or headset, while marshallers stand by for visual assistance.
In case of headset failure:
- The wingwalker or marshaller will switch to hand signals
- Communication should be confirmed visually before movement begins
Marshalling at Small Aerodromes
Often performed by flight school staff, aero club members, or fuel attendants.
May include informal signals or pointing gestures.
Pilots should always clarify intentions with ATC or ground if uncertain.
Safety Considerations
- ✅ Acknowledge hand signals with visual cues (e.g., flashing taxi light, head nod)
- ✅ Stop immediately if the signal is unclear
- ✅ Do not proceed unless ground is clear and guidance is visible
- ❌ Never taxi blindly into a stand without clearance or visibility
Phraseology Reference (if used together with radio)
- “Request marshaller on stand 5”
- “Visual contact with marshaller, proceeding to stop”
- “Ready for hand signal guidance”