The simplest answer is that pilots can’t see the parking lines from the cockpit, so these marshals step in to guide them.
They use hand signals like pros to guide pilots to the right spot, ensuring the plane parks safely and avoids any stray debris on the taxiway. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds, especially when visibility is low due to bad weather.
It’s a team effort. Before touchdown, airport controllers communicate with pilots about where to land. Then, pilots coordinate with maintenance personnel who pass the landing and parking instructions to the marshals. These marshals then provide crystal-clear signals, ensuring the plane moves and parks without a hitch.
Aircraft marshals play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient airport operations, involving precise communication and coordination among multiple parties. So, take a moment to appreciate them. It’s a fascinating aspect of aviation that often goes unnoticed.
