Scaling Training: The Numbers Behind Pushback and Towing Simulation

In aviation, proficiency is built not only through time, but through repetition. The more often a trainee performs a task, the faster it becomes instinctive. Nowhere is this more critical than on the ramp, where pushback and towing operations demand precision, coordination and confidence.

Pushbacks at Scale

In live operations, a new ramp agent may complete around 300 pushbacks over a 20-day training period. It sounds substantial until you compare it with simulation.

On a simulator, the same trainee can perform up to 80 pushbacks in a single day. These numbers come from training data collected together with one of our clients operating at a major European airport.

This compressed intensity matters. Each scenario reinforces:

• communication and readbacks with the flight deck
• correct use of hand signals and equipment
• smooth and controlled tug handling
• consistent adherence to the IGOM process

Every session also includes pre-operation safety checks, mirroring real ramp procedures and helping trainees build the discipline required before any aircraft movement. Conditions such as wind, snow, rain or low visibility are fully simulated, making training more complete than what is often possible on the apron.

Mistakes become immediate learning loops instead of costly incidents. Trainees repeat, correct and refine without putting aircraft, staff or equipment at risk.

Towing With Confidence

Towing is one of the most risk-sensitive operations on the apron. In real environments, trainees may log only about 100 tows over 20 days. This is rarely enough exposure to develop comfort and fluency with aircraft movement.

Simulation changes this entirely.

Trainees can complete around 20 towing procedures in a single day, gaining in one week more towing practice than they would normally receive in an entire month on the ramp.

This repetition develops:
• stable and predictable speed control
• smooth steering of heavy aircraft
• disciplined execution of pre-tow checks
• confidence during complex manoeuvres such as tight turns or stand entries

Each towing scenario is supported by a full walkaround inspection, hazard identification and FOD awareness, ensuring that the trainee learns not only the manoeuvre but also the context in which it must be performed safely.

By the time they step onto the apron, hesitation is replaced with muscle memory.

Why Repetition Works

Ground operations are repetitive by design, but they leave no room for variation or improvisation. Simulation allows trainees to practice the same task repeatedly, under consistent and controlled conditions, until it becomes routine. Repetition builds:

• accuracy
• speed
• situational awareness
• reduction of human error

It also strengthens safety habits such as pre-task checks, walkaround sequencing and continuous attention to FOD.

For safety-critical tasks, this is the fastest route to operational competence.

Measurable Operational Impact

For operators, the numbers translate into practical benefits:

• shorter training cycles, new hires reach operational readiness faster
• lower training costs, less dependence on aircraft, GSE and apron availability
• reduced operational disruption, no need to block stands or schedule equipment for training
• improved safety performance through consistent, repeatable procedures
• stronger procedural discipline thanks to integrated walkaround, FOD control and safety checks

Simulation amplifies the amount of meaningful practice a trainee can receive while eliminating the operational constraints that often limit real-world training.

Conclusion

When viewed through the lens of repetition and exposure, the advantage of simulation becomes clear. Eighty pushbacks in a day or twenty towing procedures in a single session are impossible to achieve on the ramp but fully achievable in a simulator.

By delivering this level of practice, together with complete safety checks, walkaround routines, FOD awareness and realistic physics, simulation equips ground crews with the skills, confidence and reliability needed to keep airport operations safe, efficient and on time.