The methods and procedures for handling aircraft ashore are similar to those afloat. When an air wing or squadron is shore based, it operates on air stations that have paved spotting areas. The area where a particular group of aircraft is spotted or parked is referred to as "the line." Aircraft are spotted on the line for servicing, loading, maintenance, and checking for operational readiness. It is the responsibility of the personnel assigned to the line crew to direct and spot the aircraft. The line is spotted following the flight schedule instructions. Aircraft must be spotted for engine turnup, taxiing, or towing without endangering other aircraft on the line. In directing an aircraft that is taxiing from the line, the director should remain in control of the aircraft until it is clear of other aircraft or obstructions in the spotting area. Incoming aircraft should be met at the edge of the spotting area and directed to the appropriate spot. Transient aircraft often require assistance in taxiing from the runway to the spotting area. An appropriate vehicle that has the words "follow me" displayed in large letters is used. The vehicle meets the aircraft at the end of the runway or an intersection to the runway and leads it to the spotting area or flight line. Personnel assigned to flight line duty should prepare for possible emergencies by becoming thoroughly familiar with the various types of fire-fighting equipment available on the line. They must know their location and capabilities and ensure, by frequent inspection, that they are always ready for use. The use of standard color-coded fire extinguishers promotes greater safety and lessens the chances of error, confusion, or inaction in time of emergency. Coding distinguishes flight-line fire extinguishers from building fire equipment. The type of extinguisher, together with the class of fire it extinguishes, must be painted on a 6-inch color band. The letters are black and at least 1 inch in height. The 6-inch band around the top of the extinguisher should be painted as follows: Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)..…Yellow AFFF Type.........…………Silver or white Purple K Powder........……Purple Halon..................…………Fluorescent yellow Carts for handling the 50-pound extinguisher bottles should be painted the same color as the extinguisher band. The containers or holders for the other fire extinguishers located on the line may also be painted the same color as the extinguisher band. MULTIENGINE AIRCRAFT HANDLING Because each type of multiengine aircraft requires slightly different handling procedures, this discussion is limited to general handling procedures. Specific handling procedures for specific aircraft may be found in the "General Information and Servicing" section of the MIM. Many multiengine aircraft have a means of steering the nosewheel from the cockpit. While this provides more effective control when the aircraft is taxied, it also limits the radius of turns. When an aircraft equipped with cockpit steering is being directed, allow sufficient space as a turn is being made. The nosewheel steering system should be disengaged, if possible, when an aircraft is towed by the nosewheel. Special towing equipment is provided for each type of multiengine aircraft. This consists of a nosewheel towing and steering bar for forward towing and a main gear tow bar or adapter for aft towing. The nosewheel bar is used to steer the aircraft when towing it from aft. Large  aircraft  should  be  towed  slowly  and carefully. Sudden starts, stops, and turns must be avoided. When an aircraft is towed, the brakes should be engaged only in an emergency. If a quick stop is necessary, the brakes of the tractor and aircraft should be applied at the same time (the aircraft move director coordinates this action by blowing a whistle). In addition to the above handling instructions, the following safety precautions should be observed: 1. During towing operations, have a qualified operator in the pilot's seat to operate the brakes when necessary. Ensure that there is sufficient hydraulic pressure for brake operation. 2. When aircraft are moved in close spaces, a taxi director and sufficient walkers should be placed to provide centralized control and to ensure clearance of obstructions. 3. If the aircraft is equipped with a tail wheel, unlock the tail wheel before the aircraft is moved. 4. Ensure that the landing gear safety lockpins or down locks are installed before the aircraft is towed. 5. Do  not  turn  the  nosewheel  beyond  the nosewheel turn limits. Structural damage will result. 10-34