Aircraft towing

Effectivity: All Bombardier aircraft  

 ATA: 9 

By: Kevin Ensminger, Technical Services 

Operators are reminded to verify that parking brakes have been released prior to aircraft towing. 

At some facilities, it has been reported that personnel have been using the tug to determine whether an aircraft can move freely, without checking for parking brake engagement in the cockpit. Additionally, some are performing brake testing or verification during towing operations.  

This practice is not acceptable on any Bombardier aircraft and may result in varying degrees of damage. Bombardier aircraft are often undergoing repairs for towing damage incurred while the parking brake is engaged. 

Please ensure that all personnel involved in towing operations verify that the parking brake is fully released before any aircraft movement is initiated. This precaution is essential to prevent damage to the aircraft and to maintain safe ground handling practices.