I frequently notice crew members standing in front of military aircraft with a long cable or rope before the aircraft begins taxiing. I have seen this with several different aircraft types, including the C-5, KC-135, and C-130.
I have been curious about the purpose of this for quite some time but have not been able to find a clear explanation online. Does anyone know what the cable or rope is used for and why crew members stand in front of the aircraft before departure?
