Ground Handling 101

Each flight of a land-based airplane begins and ends at the tiedown, or in the hangar. Even if you’re flying a seaplane, glider or helicopter, some degree of preparation, care and feeding of your aircraft occurs on the ground/water, where it actually spends most of its time. How we operate an aircraft on the ground doesn’t carry with it the same levels of risk as when we’re airborne, but like anything involving aviation, there are right ways and wrong ways to do things.

Key Takeaways:

• Aircraft ground operations, including starting, taxiing, and towing, are critical for safety and security and often overlooked, requiring adherence to proper procedures.
• Engine starting demands a clear area free of obstructions and personnel, ensuring all aircraft components are secure, and using minimal throttle to prevent damage or injury.
• Taxiing should be done slowly and deliberately, utilizing minimal power to maintain movement without constant braking, thereby preserving brakes and tires, and ensuring control on ramps and taxiways.
• Towing and pushing aircraft require correct towbar attachment and removal, observing manufacturer-specified turning limitations, and often a second person to ensure clearance from obstructions.

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