FACT WIKI · Concept
Aircraft pushback and towing
Aircraft pushback and towing
Pushback moves an aircraft backwards from a parking stand using a tug or tow vehicle. It is a ground operation involving coordination between pilots, ground crew and air traffic control.
Roles and functions
Tugs give ground staff precise control of an airliner's movement while avoiding the jet blast, debris ingestion, noise and limited rearward visibility associated with reversing under engine power. Reverse-thrust movement, known as powerback, exists for approved aircraft and operators but is uncommon and prohibited at many airports.
How it works
A normal pushback uses a closed-loop communication sequence: commands concerning brakes, movement and disconnection are acknowledged.
In a departure pushback, ground staff connect the tug after clearance, coordinate with the flight deck, release the aircraft's brakes and move it to the approved position. The brakes are then set, the tug disconnected and taxi clearance obtained.
A pushback tug turns the aircraft's nose landing gear, causing the aircraft to pivot around its main landing gear.
Scope and limitations
The order of pushback operations varies with aircraft type, airport rules, weather and operator procedures. A remote stand may require a short repositioning movement rather than a conventional gate pushback.
References
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