Aircraft Jacking, Towing and Ground Handling Procedure

Purpose. This procedure sets the safe method for jacking, towing, positioning and securing aircraft at each site.

1.Scope

This procedure applies to any movement or lifting of an aircraft by staff, including towing into and out of the hangar, positioning on the apron, jacking for landing gear or wheel work and securing against wind.

2.Towing

Aircraft may be towed only by staff trained and authorised in the register, using the correct tow bar for the type, at walking pace, with a second person as a wing walker whenever the aircraft passes within three metres of another aircraft, a structure or equipment. Brakes must be checked and chocks placed at the end of every move.

• Authorised tow operator and wing walker
• Correct tow bar and shear pin for the type
• Walking pace only
• Chocks placed and brakes set at the end

3.Jacking

Jacking must be done inside the hangar on level floor unless a risk assessment approves otherwise. Only the jacking points and jacks specified in the maintenance manual may be used. All jacks must be raised together and locked, and the aircraft must be placarded as on jacks with no one permitted aboard unless the manual allows it.

4.Engine runs

Engine ground runs must be performed by authorised staff at the designated run up area with the aircraft chocked, the area clear of loose objects and a fire extinguisher in reach. Hearing protection is mandatory within the run up area.

5.Securing

Aircraft left on the apron must have control locks fitted, be chocked and be tied down when wind above the type's limit is forecast. Pitot covers and intake blanks must be fitted and recorded on the work order.

6.Incidents

Any contact between an aircraft and equipment, structure or another aircraft must be reported using the occurrence report form and the aircraft grounded until inspected by a licensed engineer.