Do not tow aircraft when wind velocity is ___ knots or more.

• A. 60
• B. 70
• C. 75
• D. 80

Answer: (B)

Towing a C-17 becomes unsafe when wind forces on the aircraft and tow system can no longer be reliably managed by the crew. At seventy knots or more, gusts and steady wind create unpredictable side forces, making it hard to maintain a straight line, keep directional control, and respond quickly to any movement. The risk of the nose gear or towbar being forced off course, or the aircraft yawing and colliding with ground equipment or personnel, increases significantly. That’s why the rule is to not tow once wind velocity reaches seventy knots or more. Below that threshold, trained teams can control the aircraft with proper brake and steering techniques and stop the tow if conditions worsen.