What is the primary responsibility of a ground guide during sling-load lift-off and landing?

What is the primary responsibility of a ground guide during sling-load lift-off and landing?

• A. Direct the aircraft and ground personnel to maintain safe clearance around the load
• B. Direct the aircraft's throttle
• C. Monitor fuel levels and record times
• D. Radio maintenance status to base

Answer: (C)

The ground guide’s main job during sling-load lift-off and landing is to direct the aircraft and ground personnel to maintain safe clearance around the load. They position themselves to have a clear view of the helicopter, the load, and any obstacles, and use standardized signals to guide the pilot’s path, control the load’s swing, and keep everyone clear of the danger zone. This coordination helps prevent collisions and hazards as the helicopter lifts off or settles in, especially when the load can swing or shift. The other tasks listed aren’t the ground guide’s responsibility: throttle control is handled by the pilot, monitoring fuel levels and recording times is a flight/crew or support task, and reporting maintenance status is a maintenance or base function.

The ground guide’s main job during sling-load lift-off and landing is to direct the aircraft and ground personnel to maintain safe clearance around the load. They position themselves to have a clear view of the helicopter, the load, and any obstacles, and use standardized signals to guide the pilot’s path, control the load’s swing, and keep everyone clear of the danger zone. This coordination helps prevent collisions and hazards as the helicopter lifts off or settles in, especially when the load can swing or shift.

The other tasks listed aren’t the ground guide’s responsibility: throttle control is handled by the pilot, monitoring fuel levels and recording times is a flight/crew or support task, and reporting maintenance status is a maintenance or base function.