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Towing
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From turboprops to the Airbus A380
We move aircraft
When aircraft are on the ground they are often moved using a tractor. This is done when an aircraft needs assistance to leave a parking position and because this approach is often more economical.
Moving aircraft backwards
Aircraft have no reverse gear, and therefore need assistance when leaving their parking positions. Aircraft can use their engines to roll forward under their own power. However, for long distances on the ground it is often more economical and ecologically sound to tow them using a tractor.
In towing, we distinguish between
- pushing back aircraft from their parking positions
- towing aircraft between different parking positions (repositioning) and
- towing between handling aprons and hangar areas (maintenance towing)
In towing, we distinguish between
- pushing back aircraft from their parking positions
- towing aircraft between different parking positions (repositioning) and
- towing between handling aprons and hangar areas (maintenance towing)
Pushback
In a pushback, an aircraft with crew and passengers or cargo on board is pushed out backwards from its parking position to a taxiway from which it can taxi under its own power to the runway. It can be carried out as a walkout or as a single man pushback.
Walkout
Single man pushback
Single man pushback – unlike a walkout – is handled by the tractor driver alone. A walkout assistant is not required. The tractor driver is in direct contact with the cockpit and apron control, and also performs the tasks of the walkout assistant. This ensures a faster and more economical pushback.
Repositioning and maintenance towing
In repositioning operation, an aircraft is towed from one parking position to another. This may be necessary, for instance, when the current parking position is needed by another aircraft. A maintenance towing operation involves moving an aircraft from the handling aprons to the hangar area when it needs maintenance or repairs. Repositioning and maintenance towing are carried out without passengers and crews on board.
