Why are hand signals important in aircraft communication during emergencies?

Hand signals play a crucial role in aircraft communication during emergencies mainly because noise levels can be exceptionally high, especially in a chaotic environment such as an airport during a crisis. In situations where engines are running or multiple alarms are sounding, verbal communication through radios may become difficult or even impossible. Using hand signals allows personnel to convey critical information clearly and effectively without relying on verbal cues, ensuring all team members can receive instructions in real-time and act swiftly.

While attracting attention, preventing miscommunication with radios, and providing visual confirmation of orders are all relevant aspects of communication, they are secondary to the impact that high noise levels can have on verbal interactions. During an emergency, ensuring each team member understands the directives being communicated is vital for efficient response, and hand signals serve as a reliable alternative when traditional communications are hindered.