What is the role of wing walkers during aircraft pushback?

Wing walkers play a crucial role in ensuring safety during the aircraft pushback process. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that there is a safe clearance around the aircraft at all times. This involves monitoring the surrounding environment, including other vehicles, equipment, and personnel, to prevent any potential collisions or accidents as the aircraft is being pushed back from the gate.

During pushback, wing walkers position themselves at the wings of the aircraft to provide visual guidance to the ground crew and the tug operator. They communicate necessary signals to indicate when it is safe to proceed and to help navigate the aircraft accurately in tight spaces. This role is vital because the area around an aircraft can be busy and crowded, and the size and wingspan of the aircraft can create blind spots for the operators.

The other options do not align with the specific duties and responsibilities associated with wing walkers. For instance, directing passengers boarding the aircraft, indicating fuel levels, or signaling the start of takeoff are not part of the wing walkers' functions during the pushback process. Wing walkers focus exclusively on maintaining safety and clearance around the aircraft while it is being maneuvered on the ground.