Module 7.17 Aircraft handling and storage

Knowledge level

Sub-module	A	B1 / B3	B2 / B2L
7.17 Aircraft handling and storage	2	2	2

Content: taxiing/towing and precautions; jacking, chocking, securing; storage; refuelling/defuelling; de-icing/anti-icing; electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic ground supplies; effects of environmental conditions.

Towing

• Only trained, authorised persons; use the approved tow bar (with shear pins) or towbarless tractor.
• Team: tug driver, a brake operator in the cockpit (with communication), wing walkers (and tail walker) in congested areas.
• Before towing: set the nose-wheel steering bypass (towing pin/lockout) so the steering system is not damaged; keep the landing gear ground locks installed; release the parking brake only when the tug is connected; make sure brake pressure is available (accumulator charged); switch on the anti-collision lights.
• Observe nose-wheel turning limits (marked on the nose gear doors on many aircraft); do not exceed towing speed (walking pace); avoid sharp stops.
• Shear pin failure protects the nose gear from overload - replace only with the correct pin.

Taxiing

• Only qualified staff authorised by the operator/organisation (training in R/T, airfield signals and the aircraft type).
• Use standard marshalling signals (ICAO), maintain a lookout, keep engine power low (jet blast and propeller hazard), test brakes as soon as the aircraft moves.
• Danger areas: engine intakes (suction), exhaust (blast and heat), propellers (always treat as live).