Originally Posted by
STN Ramp Rat
Sb SFO
to clarify with the coms, the aircraft and the tug would both be in contact with ATC but the aircraft and the tug would probably not be in contact with each other. this is certainly not uncommon in Europe, I am sure there would have been coms during the pushback but possibly not in the tow.
Tug driver communicates with tower. Brake rider on board may be monitoring the frequency but doesn't get involved.
Comms between flight deck and ground crew through hand signals.
That's the only way I have known it done at most airports I have worked in UK and Europe.