#RUNWAY TOWING DRIVER#

#RUNWAY TOWING DRIVER#

And for added safety, never apply the aircraft's brakes unless instructed to do so by a team member in an emergency situation.ĭuring transport, the aircraft towing vehicle driver is responsible for controlling the speed and direction of the aircraft. While being towed into position, an aircraft's engines should never be in operation. Make sure to never start and stop suddenly. When actually towing an aircraft, the towing vehicle must maintain a reasonable speed that does not exceed that of the walking speed of team members. At times, a team member may be stationed to both observe and maintain the pressure of the aircraft's hydraulic system.This allows the aircraft operator to observe and operate the aircraft's parking brake as needed. A qualified operator will need to sit in the pilot's seat of the aircraft being towed.At times, a tail walker may also be assigned in situations where sharp turns may be required or when an aircraft needs to be backed into position.This allows the team to provide adequate clearance of any obstruction that may be in the aircraft's path.

There will also be wing walkers stationed at each wingtip.The aircraft tug operator is responsible for operating the vehicle safely, obeying all instructions given by a fellow team member.Airline towing is a team effort and requires every member to be on the same page and ready for any situation. It's crucial that all aircraft ground-handling personnel are intimately familiar with each and every procedure pertaining to the various types of aircraft being towed, the GSE fleet and all local operating standards in regard to ground handling procedures. You should also check that all tires and landing gear struts are properly inflated. And to avoid damage to the aircraft or personal injury during your aircraft towing procedures, make sure that all entrance doors are closed, ladders are fully retracted and gear-down locks are installed. Prepare the Aircraft to be Transportedīefore towing the aircraft, it's critical that you verify the engine is completely turned off. It's important that the person in the flight deck coordinate the use of the aircraft's brakes with those of the GSE. When the aircraft is stopped, never rely upon the brakes of the pushback tug or towing vehicle alone to stop the aircraft. In general, wheel chocks should always be at the ready throughout any aircraft towing operation. If this is the case, personnel should be standing by with chocks for emergency use. An aircraft with faulty brakes should only ever be towed into position for brake system repairs. Test the Aircraft Brake Systemīefore each airport towing operation, the aircraft's brake system must be charged and checked. If there are any cracks, bowing or other visible damage, the towbar should be removed from service immediately. Be sure to also inspect the towbar and connection. If using towbars, always double-check that you're utilizing the correct towbar and towbar head. Whether you're using aircraft recovery dollies or towbarless tugs, it's important to use the right GSE (with the right towing capacity) for the job. The first step in all thorough aircraft towing procedures is ensuring you're using the proper ground support equipment (GSE).

Runway towing