How should you respond to a request for assistance from a marshaller?

• A. Provide assistance if unsafe; ignore signals
• B. Provide assistance if safe; follow their signals; ensure not to obstruct operations
• C. Refuse to help
• D. Wait for ATC to respond first

Answer: (B)

When a marshaller asks for assistance, the priority is safe and organized ground movement. You respond by helping if it can be done safely, and you follow the marshaller’s signals exactly. Their directions tell you where to go, how fast to move, and when to hold or stop, so sticking to those cues helps prevent collisions and keeps operations flowing smoothly.

If the requested action would be unsafe or would block other operations, you pause and reassess with the marshaller, then proceed only when given a clear, safe instruction. Maintain awareness of other traffic, ensure you don’t obstruct taxiways or ramps, and communicate or clarify as needed to stay on the same page. There’s no reason to wait for ATC to respond first—the marshaller is coordinating ground movement, so your actions should align with their guidance.