Why is the push-back-car actually first pushing the plane from the gate, but then moves it straight ahead?

Question

I often see that.. The plane is pushed back, then (in most of the cases) it is turned by 90° to the left or right, then it continues to be pushed back a few meters (I guess to align the plane/gear), BUT THEN, the push-back-car drives ahead, therefore it doesn't push back, but push-forward.... So why is that?

Answer 1

you are confused.  when i get a push back the driver is being directed by 2 men walking along side of the plane  at the end they steer the plane on a 45degree angle so the pilot can complete the turn... at this point main engines are started and the auxilery engine shut off.. the push driver unhooks and the captain gives a hand signael to  the two men walking alongside that he is now in control and to make way. ok

Answer 2

The push back tractor pushes the aircraft to a point where the aircraft can easily go into the flow of traffic. This point and the direction of the aircraft is determined by the aircraft crew. Usually the driver of the tractor is told by the pilot which direction they want to end up. This is a necessity at some airports, but not at others.

Once the aircraft is where it needs to be, the driver calls for "brakes on," gets the response from the crew "brakes are on" and the driver or someone else disconnects the tow bar from the nose wheel. After the tractor moves away, the captain is saluted, meaning that all ground personnel are clear and the aircraft is ready for flight, and that all disabling pins have been removed, and that the aircraft can move away at the pilot's discretion.

Some aircraft need to have their gear "equalized" so that the strain on the gear is removed prior to removal of the tow bar. I  didn't think that any of them were still flying, but I have never towed any of the Airbus aircraft. None of the Boeing's that I used to tow around needed thins.

The tow driver and the cockpit crew are in constant communication, and sometimes the crew want different positions for reasons of their own.

Regards,

Dan

Answer 3

It is easier for the driver to see where the plane is ( wing tips etc) when manoeuvering in confined spaces - Then once the plane is on the tarmac it can be towed normally.