Scanner and wing walkers are required within how many feet of an obstruction?

• A. 25 feet
• B. 15 feet
• C. 50 feet
• D. 100 feet

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a safe observation distance is essential when moving an aircraft near obstructions. The required distance of 25 feet gives a practical balance between staying close enough for clear visibility and signaling, while staying far enough to avoid exposure to propellers, jet blast, or nearby equipment.

With a scanner watching behind and around the aircraft and wing walkers focused on the wingtips and shoulder areas, being within 25 feet ensures they can quickly perceive any obstacle and communicate immediate course corrections to the pilot or tow operator. This proximity also provides enough time to react if the aircraft begins to drift or if an obstructing object moves into the path.

If you were much closer, you’d risk distraction from nearby hazards or getting caught in turbulent airflow; if you were much farther, visibility and the ability to signal effectively would degrade, increasing the chance of a collision with an obstacle. Hence, 25 feet is the appropriate and safe standard.