Aircraft Maintenance Manual: Towing and Taxiing

Overview

• Date: April 20, 2024
• Presented via YouTube
• Chapter: 09 - Towing and Taxiing

Key Procedures

Towing and Push Back

• Engine Off: Aircraft movement without engine power
• Normal Procedure: Nose gear towing
• Abnormal Procedure: Main landing gear towing (usually after an accident to clear the runway)
• Connection Points:
  • Nose Gear: Attach to tow bar
  • Main Gear: Use only in specific emergency situations
• Turning Limits: Indicated by painted strips (red or black) on nose gear doors
• **Safety Measures: **
  • Install steering bypass pin to disable steering controls
  • Ground lock pins for safety
  • Remove safety pins before flight

Important Points and Equipment

• Toe Bar: Connects to truck via shear pin
• Toe Tractor: Can function without a tow bar
• Steering Bypass Pin: Must be installed before towing
• Safety Locks: Ensure not to exceed dimension limits specified in maintenance manual
• Cables for Main Gear Towing: Use 'IB' to attach cables.
  • Precautions: Ensure proper procedures if towing with a flat tire

Checklist and Precautions

• Headset Communication: Use during movement
• Maintain Clear Path: Free of personnel and obstacles
• Ground Control Approval: Necessary for taxi clearance
• Light Operations: Use navigation and taxi lights for visibility
• Hydraulic System: Ensure it is pressurized for brakes and nose wheel steering
• Proper Authorization: Only approved personnel can perform taxi and towing
• Tower Communication: Essential for safety and coordination

Taxiing

• Engine Power: Taxiing requires engine power
• System Checks: Hydraulic, electric systems and lights
• Approval: Only authorized personnel
• Clearance: Ensure path is clear; communicate with the tower
• Checklist: Follow airline maintenance checklist for safe operations

Visual Aids

• External Lights: For aircraft positioning and safety
• Diagrams: Refer to maintenance manual for correct procedures

Summary

• Adherence to safety measures and proper protocols is essential for towing and taxiing
• Follow the aircraft maintenance manual closely
• Ensure all personnel involved are properly trained and authorized

Comments and suggestions are welcome. Thank you!