EMB ERJ 170/175 ER/LR
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine
Situational Awareness; Training / Qualification; Communication Breakdown; Workload
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Ground Event / Encounter Jet Blast; Ground Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence; Ground Incursion Ramp
Flight Crew Became Reoriented
Human Factors; Procedure; Airport
While taxiing into [spot]; it was raining with lowered visibility. The ramp agents were standing in position with the exception of the marshaller. The Safedock system was in operation; and I saw an agent by the controls. I followed the line clearly marked [spot]; which was between both wing walkers. Directly in front of this line; which was angled to the left; was the door marked [spot]. I had line of sight to Safedock. As a newer Captain; I did not have any reason to doubt that this was my 'J' line to follow. As I approached and passed the large [spot] painted on the ground; I realized that it was a dashed line; rather than a solid. Just as I noticed this; a marshaller appeared to my left. The marshaller then waved his flags at me and pointed to my left. I then realized that there was another [spot] line; and that I was in the wrong one.The marshaller emphatically waved his batons to my left; and I believed he was directing me left to exit the ramp. I had my FO [First Officer] call Ramp Control and got clearance to turn left and swing back around for the correct 'J' line. I received that approval. I conducted the turn after the marshaller again waved me to the left.I was able to gain clear sight of the vehicles on both sides and noticed no impediment to my progress. I turned around on the taxi lane and entered the straight in 'J' line using Safedock.My FO said that he then saw some markings for the slanted line that indicated it might be for an B737.I was approached by a Ramp Supervisor upon exiting the aircraft. He stated that I had 'jet blasted' his rampers during my exit turn. I explained my perspective; given that I believed I was following the ramper's direction. He told me that 'Next time; call for a tug.' I told him that I understood his concerns; expressly apologized for my confusion during the parking; and that I would heed his advice in the future.[Causes]1) My inexperience as a Captain2) The addition of 'J' lines for B737 aircraft that lined up with safe dock; were labeled exactly the same as the ones for Airline aircraft3) Rain and visibility issues4) Last leg of a day that began [early]5) Confusing and very late directions given by marshaller[Suggestions]1) Use this as a learning tool with respect to ground operations2) Given the human factors present in this event; I believe there needs to be changes to the paint for B737 'J' lines.3) More focus in inclement weather4) Recognize that fatigue can play a role at every stage of a flight; including taxiing to park5) Use my own judgment when given instructions that don't seem to be correct/ safe.
EMB-175 Captain reported confusion during taxi into the gate because of multiple lead in lines and marshaller standing by while the crew used Safedock.