What hand signal indicates to Apply Air Brakes?

What hand signal indicates to Apply Air Brakes?

• A. Held at arm's length
• B. Swung horizontally above the head
• C. Pointed forward
• D. Held down at the side

Answer: (B)

The hand signal that indicates to apply air brakes is the one that is swung horizontally above the head. This signal is a clear and universally recognized indication to crew members that they should engage the air brakes. The motion of swinging the arm horizontally helps to ensure visibility and makes it less likely that the signal will be misunderstood, especially in various weather conditions or at a distance. In contrast, other signals may indicate different actions. For example, holding the arm at arm’s length typically represents a different command, while pointing forward might suggest to move or proceed. Holding the arm down at the side usually conveys a signal to stop or a neutral position, which does not apply to the action of applying air brakes. Hence, the specific action of swinging the arm above the head is distinctly associated with the command to apply the air brakes.

The hand signal that indicates to apply air brakes is the one that is swung horizontally above the head. This signal is a clear and universally recognized indication to crew members that they should engage the air brakes. The motion of swinging the arm horizontally helps to ensure visibility and makes it less likely that the signal will be misunderstood, especially in various weather conditions or at a distance.

In contrast, other signals may indicate different actions. For example, holding the arm at arm’s length typically represents a different command, while pointing forward might suggest to move or proceed. Holding the arm down at the side usually conveys a signal to stop or a neutral position, which does not apply to the action of applying air brakes. Hence, the specific action of swinging the arm above the head is distinctly associated with the command to apply the air brakes.