Bad idea 411, our company policy specifically excludes pushback without headset communication and for good reason.
Good for you, stilton, seems like your company has not adopted alternate plans for when a headset is not available/unserviceable....or even when English is not that well spoken by ground personnel.
This way you get more time off.
Our group, on the other hand is slightly more adaptable, and have learned how to cope with odd situations.
We combine standard ICAO hand signals with whatever else is necessary, to get the job done in a reasonable manner.
As for an engine fire upon start, I wonder what mustafagander does when he wants to start an engine whilst taxying...have someone on headset running along side?
Odd situations require just a bit of thought...the 6 P's again.
