Who shall obtain control tower clearance before towing an aircraft on or across a taxiway or runway, maintain radio contact with the tower, and inform the tower when tow is complete?

• A. Tow team supervisor
• B. Tow vehicle driver
• C. Ground controller
• D. Ramp supervisor

Answer: (A)

Coordinating a tow across taxiways or runways requires direct air-traffic coordination and a single person responsible for the tow operation. The tow team supervisor is the one charged with obtaining clearance from the control tower before any movement, staying in radio contact with the tower during the tow, and informing the tower when the tow is complete so the tower can resume normal traffic control. This role acts as the central point of responsibility, ensuring that the ground movement of the aircraft is properly sequenced with air traffic and that all personnel are aware of the current status and any changes in instructions. The tow vehicle driver handles the physical towing under the supervisor’s direction but does not initiate clearance or manage tower communications. The ground controller provides ATC clearance for aircraft movements but isn’t the on-the-ground supervisor responsible for tow operations. The ramp supervisor oversees ramp activities but does not carry the specific clearance authority for towing across taxiways or runways.