Aircraft Marshaller Course

Lesson 1 • The Marshaller's Role and Responsibilities

Defines the marshaller's duties within ground operations and the chain of command. Establishes accountability standards expected throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • Communication Fundamentals on the Ramp

Introduces radio procedures, phraseology, and non-verbal communication basics used on the ramp. Prepares learners for coordinated operations covered in later chapters.

Lesson 3 • Aviation Ground Operations Overview

Introduces the ramp environment, key personnel, and operational flow. Provides context for how marshalling integrates with other ground functions.

Lesson 1 • Personal Protective Equipment and Dress Code

Specifies required PPE for ramp operations and correct usage procedures. Connects proper attire to injury prevention and regulatory compliance.

Lesson 2 • Ramp Hazard Identification

Trains learners to recognise physical, mechanical, and environmental hazards on the ramp. Hazard identification is the foundation of all subsequent safety practices.

Lesson 3 • Safety Management Systems

Introduces the safety management system (SMS) framework applied to ground operations. Learners learn hazard reporting, risk assessment, and continuous improvement processes.

Lesson 4 • Emergency Procedures on the Ramp

Covers response protocols for fires, fuel spills, medical emergencies, and aircraft incidents. Learners practise decision-making under emergency conditions.

Lesson 1 • Aircraft Categories and Classifications

Introduces aircraft categories by size, weight, and engine type used in commercial and general aviation. Classification knowledge drives appropriate marshalling technique selection.

Lesson 2 • Key Aircraft Dimensions and Clearances

Covers wingspan, tail height, nose-to-gear distances, and turning radii for common aircraft. Accurate dimension knowledge prevents ground damage during guidance.

Lesson 3 • Aircraft Exterior Features for Marshallers

Identifies cockpit windows, navigation lights, pitot tubes, and other exterior features marshallers must recognise. Feature awareness prevents accidental contact and aids communication.

Lesson 1 • Departure and Pushback Signals

Covers signals for engine start authorisation, pushback direction, and release. Learners coordinate departure signals with ground crew and flight deck.

Lesson 2 • Signal Execution Standards

Establishes body positioning, arm extension, signal pace, and eye contact standards for all signals. Consistent execution ensures pilot comprehension and operational safety.

Lesson 3 • Emergency and Special Signals

Introduces signals for engine fire, emergency stop, and cut engines. Immediate and accurate use of these signals is critical to preventing accidents.

Lesson 4 • Signal Equipment and Visibility

Covers wands, batons, and illuminated devices used for marshalling signals. Proper equipment selection ensures pilot visibility in all lighting and weather conditions.

Lesson 1 • Calculating Stopping Points

Teaches methods to calculate and verify aircraft stopping points based on type and stand dimensions. Accurate stopping prevents overruns and equipment damage.

Lesson 2 • Parking in Confined and Complex Stands

Addresses marshalling in tight apron areas, nose-in stands, and angled parking configurations. Learners adapt standard techniques to non-standard environments.

Lesson 3 • Guiding Aircraft on Final Approach

Covers the step-by-step process of guiding an aircraft from the lead-in line to the stop point. Learners practise signal sequencing and speed control commands.

Lesson 4 • Parking Stand Layout and Markings

Explains apron markings, lead-in lines, stop bars, and stand designations. Understanding stand geometry is prerequisite to accurate aircraft positioning.

Lesson 1 • Pre-Pushback Checks and Clearances

Covers all checks required before initiating pushback, including ATC clearance and area inspection. Completing pre-pushback checks prevents incidents during the operation.

Lesson 2 • Pushback Equipment and Vehicles

Introduces conventional towbars, towbarless tractors, and associated equipment used in pushback. Equipment familiarity is essential before coordinating any pushback operation.

Lesson 3 • Pushback Execution and Direction Control

Teaches step-by-step pushback execution including direction signals, speed control, and stopping. Learners coordinate between the flight deck, tractor driver, and wing walkers.

Lesson 4 • Abnormal and Emergency Pushback Situations

Addresses brake failures, towbar shear pin breaks, and communication loss during pushback. Learners apply contingency procedures to protect aircraft and personnel.

Lesson 1 • Wind, Rain, and Extreme Weather Operations

Covers marshaller safety and technique adjustments during high winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures. Weather awareness prevents signal misinterpretation and personal injury.

Lesson 2 • Low-Visibility and Fog Procedures

Establishes procedures for marshalling in reduced visibility due to fog, rain, or smoke. Learners apply additional communication and positioning measures.

Lesson 3 • Modified Signal Techniques for Night Operations

Adapts standard signals for night visibility, including slower pace and wider arcs. Learners practise night-specific signal modifications to ensure pilot comprehension.

Lesson 1 • Recurrency Training and Certification Maintenance

Explains recurrency training schedules, competency checks, and certification renewal processes. Ongoing training ensures marshallers remain current with evolving standards.

Lesson 2 • Marshalling Performance Standards

Defines measurable performance criteria for signal accuracy, positioning, and coordination. Standards provide the benchmark for self-assessment and formal evaluation.

Lesson 3 • Documentation and Reporting Obligations

Covers shift logs, incident reports, and ground damage reports required of marshallers. Accurate documentation supports safety investigations and regulatory compliance.

Lesson 4 • Continuous Improvement in Marshalling Practice

Applies lessons-learned processes, safety data analysis, and best practice sharing to improve marshalling operations. Learners develop a professional growth mindset.