Draxon VR Training SyllabusExecuting the Pushback (Dogleg)
Virtual RealityDescription
This lesson trains the most demanding pushback maneuver: a dogleg requiring two consecutive direction changes at a constrained gate position. Set at night, the lesson adds low-visibility conditions on top of the most complex steering challenge in the course. The focus is on smooth steering transitions and spatial awareness to avoid restricted areas and maintain towbar angle limits.
Lesson Overview
- 1Confirm readiness with the Headset Operator and prepare the tractor for pushback at night
- 2Execute a dogleg maneuver with two consecutive direction changes while avoiding restricted areas in low-visibility conditions
- 3Maintain controlled steering throughout both curves to stay within safe towbar angle limits
- 4Position the aircraft on the taxiway centerline and coordinate securing the brakes with the Headset Operator
Skills Acquired
- Execute a complex dogleg pushback maneuver requiring multiple direction changes under constrained conditions
- Maintain spatial awareness and steering discipline in low-visibility night operations
- Keep towbar angle within safe limits during rapid steering transitions to prevent structural damage
- Coordinate post-pushback securing procedures through correct hand signal exchange
Lesson Procedure
- The trainee starts seated in the tractor at night, at a gate positioned close to the terminal. The Headset Operator signals brakes-off and readiness; the trainee confirms with a thumbs-up.
- The trainee activates hazard lights, releases the parking brake, sets the gear to drive, and begins the pushback.
- The trainee pushes the aircraft straight back, then steers into a left curve to clear the restricted area near the terminal before redirecting into a right curve to align with the taxiway centerline.
- Throughout both direction changes, the trainee must maintain smooth steering to keep the towbar angle within safe limits while avoiding restricted areas on both sides.
- The trainee brings the aircraft to a stop at the target position on the taxiway centerline.
- The trainee sets the parking brake and signals brakes-set to the Headset Operator, holding the closed fist until acknowledged.
- The Headset Operator confirms the aircraft brakes are set, completing the pushback sequence.
Safety Scenarios & Learnings
Driving too close to the Headset Operator
Fatal crash animation; safe distance from ground personnel required at all times
Fatal crash animation; safe distance from ground personnel required at all times
Pushing aircraft off path or into restricted area
Rewind; steering control prevents equipment damage
Rewind; steering control prevents equipment damage
Exceeding maximum towbar angle or jackknifing
Rewind; controlled steering prevents structural damage to nose gear
Rewind; controlled steering prevents structural damage to nose gear
Final position outside tolerance
Rewind; precise centerline positioning required for safe taxi
Rewind; precise centerline positioning required for safe taxi
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