At what speed are pushbacks typically conducted?

Pushbacks are typically conducted at walking speed, which is generally recognized to be between 3-5 mph. This speed allows for the safe maneuvering of the aircraft away from the gate while ensuring that ground personnel can maintain a safe working environment. Operating at this pace minimizes the risk of accidents and gives ground crews ample time to communicate effectively with the flight crew, clear any obstacles in the aircraft's path, and correctly position the aircraft for its subsequent taxi maneuvers.

Choosing to conduct pushbacks at a faster pace could compromise safety, reducing the ability to monitor surroundings and increasing the likelihood of collisions or mishaps. Conversely, pushing at a slower speed, such as 1-2 mph, may unnecessarily prolong the pushback process and affect the overall efficiency of ground operations. Therefore, walking speed is the optimal choice, balancing safety and efficiency.