Aerotowing

Aerotowing is a technique used in aviation to pull an aircraft across the ground or through the air using a towing aircraft or a vehicle. The towing aircraft is typically a high-performance vehicle with a significant amount of power and a specialized tow line, while the aircraft being towed, often referred to as the "towed aircraft," needs to be capable of being pulled without sustaining damage.

There are several types of aerotowing, including ground tugging, where an aircraft is pulled along the ground, and in-flight towing, where an aircraft is pulled through the air. Ground tugging is often used to help an aircraft move from one location to another without taking off, while in-flight towing is used for training purposes, to facilitate engine testing, or to move large aircraft.

Aerotowing is employed by various organizations, including airlines, military units, and specialty air traffic control services. It is particularly useful for Boeing 747 and Airbus A380 aircraft, as they are too large and heavy to be towed by conventional ground equipment.

The process of aerotowing involves a series of complex procedures to ensure both safety of the aircraft and the towing crew, including precise communication, slow and controlled movement, and strict adherence to aerotowing standards. Skilled pilots and trained personnel are required for aerotowing operations to mitigate potential risks and ensure a successful outcome.

Aerotowing is an effective technique for aviation support, offering a solution for moving aircraft when conventional methods are impractical or impossible to apply. However, due to the complex nature of the operation, it should only be performed by authorized and trained personnel, and with strict adherence to established safety protocols.