How should ground equipment be positioned when at the aircraft?

The positioning of ground equipment when at the aircraft is crucial for safety and operational efficiency. When stating that ground equipment should be positioned forward and back of at least one tire, this practice ensures that the equipment is both out of the way of the aircraft's operational zones and also strategically placed for easy access during loading and unloading.

By maintaining this distance, the equipment avoids the potential hazards associated with the aircraft's movement, including wing and tail swing, while also providing necessary clearance for personnel working around the aircraft. Additionally, this positioning maximizes the efficiency of ground handling operations, allowing for unimpeded access to the cargo doors and aircraft body.

Moreover, ensuring that the ground equipment is located within a specific area relative to the tires helps ground crews quickly ascertain the boundaries of the operational area, which enhances situational awareness and safety when conducting various procedures such as fueling, baggage loading, or equipment servicing.