B757 flight crew reported they unknowingly pushed back from the gate with the ramp agent not clear of the aircraft and still connected via headset.
Synopsis
B757 flight crew reported they unknowingly pushed back from the gate with the ramp agent not clear of the aircraft and still connected via headset.
Narrative
Tow out to gate start area normal. Tug and tow personnel disconnect and clearing normal. Start normal. Cleared ground headset individual to 'disconnect; will flash taxi light when ready to taxi. Ground headset guy asked 'what direction will you be turning? We responded 'right.' For the disconnect; we both thought we heard 'OK'; but we did not visually confirm him clearing. There was no Marshaller in charge of the event providing standard signals. Individual on headset (first time doing event) said he replied to 'cleared to disconnect'; 'ok; let me know when'.There was no mentor with the first time individual. We flashed the light (no response from bystanders either way) and added power to taxi. The folks standing by the tow tractor gave no reaction; no signals to stop; gave no reaction at all. In postflight we heard the story of the headset guy; upon hearing power up; scampering to unplug and clear. No injuries - well maybe a poopy diaper (mine when notified in debrief). After action. Aircrew has overall responsibility. Need to visually clear all the individuals. Don't get lost in event and priorities. Always brief with the tow crews prior (don't assume anything) and require Marshaller; controlling; and standard signals. We mentioned having a Marshaller in charge of the event; controlling; and providing proper signals. Company said they do train that way but did not execute for this event. Will require going forward.
Second reporter narrative
Tow out to gate start area was normal. Tug and Tow Personnel disconnect and clearing normal. Start normal. Cleared ground headset individual to disconnect. Ground headset guy said OK; then asked which way we would be turning. Neither myself nor the Captain saw him clearing. There was no aircraft marshaller throughout. Aircraft taxied and ground headset individual managed to unplug and get clear of the aircraft without incident.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.