Aircraft Marshalling and Ground Handling Signals

Standard Hand Signals for Aircraft Marshalling

• Demonstrate and interpret standard IATA and airport-specific hand signals used for guiding aircraft during taxiing, parking, and pushback operations. This includes signals for:
  • Indicating direction (left/right turns).
  • Controlling speed (increase/decrease).
  • Stopping the aircraft.
  • Engaging/disengaging brakes.
  • Signaling emergencies.
  • Indicating engine start/stop.
  • Clearance for movement.
  • Use of wands/lighted batons in low-visibility conditions.
• Understand the importance of clear and unambiguous communication to prevent misinterpretations and ensure safety.
• Proper communication protocol for radio communication between marshaller and flight crew or ground control.

Ground Handling Vehicle Signals and Procedures

• Identify and utilize signals specific to ground handling vehicles, such as baggage tractors, fuel trucks, and catering vehicles, to coordinate movements safely around the aircraft.
• Establish procedures for vehicle positioning and maneuvering to avoid collisions and damage to the aircraft or other ground equipment.
• Understand the roles and responsibilities of all ground personnel involved in aircraft handling operations.

Aircraft Ground Servicing Operations

Aircraft Refueling Procedures

• Execute safe and efficient aircraft refueling procedures, including:
  • Performing pre-fueling inspections of fuel trucks, hoses, and nozzles.
  • Proper grounding of aircraft and fuel trucks to prevent static electricity discharge.
  • Connecting and disconnecting fuel lines according to established procedures.
  • Monitoring fuel flow and quantity to ensure accurate delivery.
  • Managing fuel spillage and containment.
  • Utilizing approved fuel types and grades for different aircraft.
• Adhere to strict safety regulations regarding fire prevention and hazardous material handling.

Aircraft Loading and Unloading Procedures

• Apply best practices for aircraft loading and unloading, including:
  • Safely operating baggage loaders and belt loaders.
  • Properly securing cargo and baggage to prevent shifting during flight.
  • Handling special cargo (e.g., live animals, hazardous materials) according to regulations.
  • Loading and unloading passengers with mobility impairments.
  • Maintaining accurate weight and balance calculations.
  • Coordinating with flight crew to ensure proper distribution of load.
• Minimize delays while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.

Aircraft De-icing and Anti-icing Procedures

• Implement effective de-icing and anti-icing procedures to ensure safe aircraft takeoff in winter conditions, including:
  • Identifying different types of frozen contaminants (e.g., frost, snow, ice).
  • Selecting appropriate de-icing and anti-icing fluids based on weather conditions.
  • Applying fluids using calibrated equipment and proper techniques.
  • Conducting pre-takeoff inspections to verify clean surfaces.
  • Understanding holdover times and their impact on flight safety.
• Comply with FAA or ICAO regulations regarding winter operations.

Ramp Safety and Security

Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Prevention

• Implement a robust FOD prevention program to minimize the risk of damage to aircraft engines, tires, and other critical components, including:
  • Conducting regular FOD walks and inspections.
  • Properly disposing of trash and debris.
  • Using FOD containers and specialized equipment.
  • Educating all personnel on FOD hazards and prevention methods.
• Understand the financial and operational impacts of FOD-related incidents.

Ground Vehicle Operations Safety

• Operate ground vehicles safely and efficiently in the airport environment, including:
  • Adhering to speed limits and traffic regulations.
  • Maintaining situational awareness and avoiding blind spots.
  • Using proper signaling and communication techniques.
  • Conducting pre-operational vehicle inspections.
  • Understanding aircraft stand markings and restricted areas.
• Prevent collisions and accidents involving aircraft, personnel, and equipment.

Emergency Response Procedures

• Respond effectively to emergencies on the airport ramp, including:
  • Aircraft fires.
  • Fuel spills.
  • Medical emergencies.
  • Security threats.
• Follow established emergency response plans and protocols.
• Coordinate with airport emergency services and other stakeholders.
• Understand evacuation procedures and assembly points.

Security Protocols and Threat Awareness

• Implement and comply with airport security protocols and regulations to prevent unauthorized access to aircraft and restricted areas, including:
• Conducting security checks of vehicles and personnel.
• Identifying and reporting suspicious activities.
• Controlling access to secured areas.
• Handling unattended baggage or items.
• Reacting to potential security threats.
• Maintain a high level of security awareness and vigilance at all times.

Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Operation and Maintenance

Safe Operation of Ground Support Equipment

• Demonstrate safe operating procedures for various types of GSE, including:
  • Belt loaders.
  • Baggage tractors.
  • Aircraft tugs.
  • Ground power units (GPUs).
  • Air start units (ASUs).
  • Lavatory service trucks.
  • Water service trucks.
  • De-icing trucks.
• Perform pre-operational checks and inspections to ensure equipment is in safe working condition.
• Adhere to manufacturer's recommendations for operation and maintenance.

Preventative Maintenance and Inspection Procedures

• Conduct regular preventative maintenance and inspections of GSE to ensure optimal performance and reliability, including:
  • Checking fluid levels.
  • Inspecting tires and brakes.
  • Lubricating moving parts.
  • Replacing worn or damaged components.
  • Maintaining accurate maintenance records.
• Identify and address potential maintenance issues before they lead to equipment failures.

Troubleshooting and Basic Repair Techniques

• Apply basic troubleshooting and repair techniques to address common GSE malfunctions, including:
  • Identifying fault codes and diagnostic indicators.
  • Replacing fuses and bulbs.
  • Tightening loose connections.
  • Adjusting control cables.
  • Performing minor repairs.
• Understand when to escalate complex repairs to qualified technicians.

Regulations and Compliance

Aviation Authority Regulations (FAA, ICAO, EASA)

• Comply with all applicable aviation authority regulations (FAA, ICAO, EASA) related to airport ground operations, including:
  • Ramp safety standards.
  • Aircraft handling procedures.
  • Hazardous materials handling.
  • Security protocols.
  • Environmental regulations.
• Stay up-to-date on regulatory changes and updates.

Airport-Specific Procedures and Standards

• Adhere to airport-specific procedures and standards for ground operations, including:
  • Taxiway markings and signage.
  • Aircraft parking positions.
  • Communication protocols.
  • Emergency response plans.
  • Local noise abatement procedures.
• Understand the importance of following local procedures to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Company Policies and Procedures

• Comply with company policies and procedures related to ground operations, including:
  • Standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Safety management systems (SMS).
  • Training requirements.
  • Reporting procedures.
  • Disciplinary actions.
• Understand the consequences of non-compliance with company policies.