What occurs during the push-back phase of an aircraft?

During the push-back phase of an aircraft, the aircraft is pushed backward from the gate. This phase is crucial as it marks the transition from being stationary at the gate to beginning the taxiing process toward the runway. Typically, push-back is performed by a specialized vehicle known as a push-back tug, which connects to the aircraft’s nose gear and carefully maneuvers it away from the terminal.

This action is necessary for safety and operational efficiency, as it allows the aircraft to clear the gate area and access taxiways. Understanding this phase is essential for flight attendants as it helps them be mindful of safety protocols and the operational timeline of the flight. Other options refer to different stages of aircraft operation; for instance, taxiing occurs after push-back, going to the runway happens later in the process, and loading cargo is part of pre-departure preparations that occur before the push-back.