During the flight planning phase, the pilot should become familiar with the destination airport. Sources include the FAA's published Airport Facility Directory, the airport's website and calling ahead to the operator in charge of servicing the plane. Unusual hazards such as construction equipment, loose gravel or the requirement for pilots to bring their own tie-down ropes and chocks may exist at any airport.
A safe towing speed of 5 MPH allows for quick stops and avoids putting too much stress on the aircraft during turns and stops. When towing airplanes with blind spots, one or more assistants should be used -- particularly in tight parking conditions. The assistant(s) should walk alongside the wingtip(s) at a position visible to the tow driver. Hand signals used to communicate between the driver and assistants should be discussed prior to towing. The signals should include a minimum of "stop," "go" and "clear."
Aircraft should be parked with the front pointing into the wind when possible. When parking near a building, point the nose of the aircraft parallel with and the wing pointed directly at the building. When parking next to other aircraft, there should be a minimum distance of 10 feet between wing tips. When pointed in the direction of another aircraft, the distance should allow the ability to pull forward and turn 90 degrees, while maintaining a wingtip clearance of at least 10 feet on either side. When an air-bridge is available, have a predetermined stop point marked on the ground with wheel chocks. Use hand signals to direct the pilot into the proper parking position.
The method used to secure the airplane is dependent on the facilities available. The use of tie-down ropes or chains should be used when tie-down anchors are available at the airport. The FAA recommends nylon or dacron ropes with a strength to hold at least 3,000 pounds. The ropes should only be fastened to the aircraft's installed tie-down rings to avoid damaging weaker parts of the structure. There should be enough slack for approximately one inch of movement and tied in a secured knot. The FAA recommends using either the bowline or square knot.
