“The Daily Work of an Aircraft Ground Guide”
In a busy airport, aircraft ground guides are an obscure but vital group of workers. They are like the “traffic police” of the airport, ensuring that every aircraft operates safely, orderly and efficiently on the ground.
Every day, when the first rays of the morning sun shine on the runway, the aircraft ground guides begin their day. Dressed in eye-catching overalls, headphones and batons, they were in high spirits and ready for the upcoming flight.
Before the flight lands, the guides arrive at their designated locations in advance and are in close contact with the air traffic controllers and pilots via radio. They need to accurately grasp the type of aircraft, the route, the estimated landing time and other information so that they can prepare for guidance. When the aircraft enters the airspace of the airport, the pilots will be engrossed in observing the dynamics of the aircraft, and guide the aircraft to land safely on the runway with clear and accurate instructions.
After the plane landed, the guide sprang into action. Standing in a prominent position, they use their batons and hand gestures to signal the pilots to guide the aircraft to the designated parking position. During the guidance process, the pilot must always maintain a high degree of vigilance, paying attention to the speed, direction and surroundings of the aircraft. They need to ensure that aircraft are kept at a safe distance from other aircraft, vehicles and equipment to avoid collisions.
When the plane was accurately parked in the parking position, the work of the guides was not over. They also assist ground staff in docking and securing aircraft to ensure that the aircraft is stable and reliable in the parking position. At the same time, the guides should communicate with the crew to understand the status and needs of the aircraft, and timely feedback the information to the relevant departments.
In addition to guiding the aircraft to land and dock, the aircraft ground guide is also responsible for the roll out and take-off guidance of the aircraft. When the plane is ready to take off, the usher will come to the plane again to check that the environment around the plane is safe. They then used batons and gestures to guide the tractor out of the parking bay and guide the aircraft to the runway start. Throughout the process, the pilot works closely with the tower controller and pilot to ensure that the aircraft takes off according to the correct route and procedures.
In a busy airport, the job of an aircraft ground guide is intense and hectic. They may be exposed to the scorching sun or they may be stuck to their posts in the cold wind. They don’t have comfortable offices, just expansive airport runways and aprons. However, they have always maintained a high sense of responsibility and professionalism, and have silently contributed to the safe operation of each aircraft.
Their work may seem ordinary, but it is related to the safety of every passenger and the property of every aircraft. They are an indispensable part of airport operations and an important force in ensuring aviation safety. Thanks to their hard work, we can fly with peace of mind and enjoy fast and safe air travel.