Latest SAFO (23006): Safeguarding Wing and Tail Walkers
Safety Alerts for Operators, commonly known as SAFOs, serve as crucial touchpoints between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and aviation professionals. These alerts often spotlight areas in need of immediate attention or improvement.
There's nothing more nerve-wracking than watching someone approach a turbine aircraft right after shutdown, propellers still spinning. Witnessing someone crouched, back turned, trying to chock the nose wheel and prepare it for towing while a spinning mass lurks behind them.
What's the rush? It only takes about 30 seconds for most turbine propellers to come to a complete stop. These propeller assemblies can weigh hundreds of pounds and possess considerable rotational inertia. Even a slowly spinning propeller can inflict severe damage.
While flying charter in West Africa, this issue was a particular pet peeve of mine. Our safety committee enacted a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to preempt any tragedies: no one can approach the aircraft until the beacon light is off, confirming that both engines are entirely shut down. The flight crew decides when they consider the aircraft safe to approach.
This anecdote segues the critical message behind the latest SAFO 23006, released August 23, 2023, impacting all operators under CFR Parts 91, 91K, 121, 125, 129, and 135.
Key Highlights
The FAA has highlighted the need for immediate attention in the realm of aircraft towing and ground handling procedures, specifically for the safety of wing and tail walkers. Two alarming incidents serve as the catalyst for this SAFO:
Wing Walker Injury: A wing walker suffered severe injuries when an aircraft being towed had to be repositioned. While the tow driver was adjusting the aircraft's position, the wing walker was removing safety pins from the landing gear, only to be struck by the aircraft's flaps and subsequently run over by its main landing gear wheels.
Ramp Agent Fatality: A ramp agent lost his life when he approached an aircraft while its engine was still running. Despite the aircraft arriving at the gate with its engine running for the mandatory two-minute cool-down, the ramp agent went ahead to open the forward cargo bay, resulting in a fatal accident.
Key Takeaways
For those in the aviation industry, particularly those responsible for towing or ground handling, the FAA strongly recommends the following actions:
Chock Installation: Always install chocks when an aircraft towing operation has stopped, either temporarily or at its final parking location.
Personnel Clearances: All personnel should remain clear of an aircraft in tow until it has come to a complete stop.
Activity Commencement: Activities should only begin after chocks are installed, and the aircraft has come to a complete stop.
Operating Engines: Maintain a safe distance from operating engines until they are entirely shut down.
Final Thoughts
Operating an aircraft doesn't start and stop in the cockpit. Whether you're a private operator or flying for hire, ground operations involve multiple personnel who share the common goal of safety.
The latest SAFO 23006 is an urgent reminder that taking shortcuts in ground handling and towing can lead to catastrophic results. By adhering to the FAA's guidelines and taking a proactive safety approach to our operations, we can make strides in safeguarding life and equipment. After all, these aren't just protocols; they're the margins that separate safe operations from preventable tragedies.
Read More
