ARS Aircraft Towing and Pushback Operations

Question 1

What is the primary communication method between the cockpit crew and the ground crew during pushback operations?

Accepted Answer

Interphone/headset communication

Answer

Hand signals from the wing walker

Answer

Radio communication on the tower frequency

Answer

Visual flag signals from the tug driver

Question 2

Before connecting a towbar to an aircraft, what must be verified?

Accepted Answer

The towbar is rated and certified for that specific aircraft type and weight

Answer

Ground power is disconnected from the aircraft

Answer

The aircraft engines are in idle

Answer

Passenger boarding is complete

Question 3

What is the maximum towing speed typically permitted for aircraft on an airport ramp?

Accepted Answer

5 mph (walking pace)

Answer

15 mph

Answer

10 mph

Answer

25 mph

Question 4

At what point during pushback should aircraft parking brakes be set?

Accepted Answer

After the pushback is complete and the towbar is disconnected

Answer

Throughout the entire pushback operation

Answer

Only before engines are started

Answer

Before the tug connects to the nose gear

Question 5

What is the purpose of a breakaway coupling on an aircraft towbar?

Accepted Answer

To intentionally fail before the nose gear structure if excessive force is applied

Answer

To allow rapid towbar removal during routine gate turns

Answer

To connect two towbars in tandem for heavy aircraft

Answer

To lock the towbar permanently to the nose gear

Question 6

During a pushback operation, who has the authority to immediately stop the operation?

Accepted Answer

Either the cockpit crew or the ground crew lead

Answer

The airline operations control center only

Answer

Air traffic control only

Answer

The ramp supervisor only

Question 7

What must be done before towing an aircraft across an active taxiway or intersection?

Accepted Answer

Obtain ATC clearance and post wing walkers as required

Answer

Notify the destination gate agent and wait for acknowledgment

Answer

Sound the tug horn three times to warn other vehicles

Answer

Stop and allow all other ground vehicles to clear first