How do wind speed limitations affect aircraft towing procedures?
Wind speed limitations directly affect aircraft towing procedures by restricting or prohibiting towing operations when wind conditions exceed safe limits. High winds can exert significant forces on the aircraft, making it difficult to control during towing. Crosswinds, in particular, can cause the aircraft to veer off course or even tip over. Strong headwinds or tailwinds can increase the stress on the tow bar and towing vehicle, potentially leading to equipment failure. Aircraft manufacturers and airport authorities establish wind speed limits for towing operations based on the aircraft type, weight, and ground conditions. When wind speeds exceed these limits, towing operations must be suspended until the wind subsides. In some cases, additional precautions, such as using additional personnel or specialized towing equipment, may be necessary to safely tow aircraft in moderate wind conditions.