"Does anyone remember the little machines they used for pushback on aircraft at BRU about 15 years ago? They were hand steered and battery powered. They used very little power and could be recharged using ground power. They were approved for use on aircraft up to 757 size."
Yes, I used to use them too on the 737 but there were problems.
Firstly they just drove one main wheel and the aircraft had to be steered by the captain moving the tiller the wrong way whilst pushing back, not ideal, and you had to keep your feet firmly off the brakes to avoid banging the tail. Then the ground man had to walk alongside giving steering instructions because you can see nothing.
The aircraft had to have its own brake and steering circuit powered so no lock out pin fitted. I think overall it was a triumph of accountancy over safety, as it was a completely different SOP procedure and one you might only do every other month.
Last edited by Seat1APlease; 5th Aug 2005 at 18:10.