Which role is required to monitor left side, right side, and rear of the aircraft during engine running pushbacks?

• A. Flight crew
• B. Ground crew
• C. Wing walkers
• D. Maintenance staff

Answer: (C)

The role responsible for watching left, right, and rear around the aircraft during an engine-running pushback is the wing walkers. They stand at strategic points beside the aircraft to keep a constant visual on both wings and the tail area as the tow tractor and engines operate. This positioning ensures the wings don’t come into contact with ground equipment, the tail doesn’t strike obstacles, and there’s no

hazard from jet blast or prop wash affecting crew or gear. Wing walkers communicate with the tow operator and cockpit, using clear signals to guide the pushback and stop conditions if anything appears unsafe.

Flight crew are in the cockpit and focus on operating the aircraft, while ground crew handle many servicing tasks; maintenance staff aren’t designated to supervise the wing and rear clearance during the pushback. Wing walkers are trained specifically for this safety-critical monitoring during engine running pushbacks.