Does everyone use a winch operator or observer?
Many tow operations dispence with an observer prefering to let the driver perform some of the observer functions. In some cases such as aero tow, there is no possible way to have a separate observer. In platform launch, a second person may ride on the platform to try to deal with emergencies by slacking pressure on the winch or cutting the rope. In static line tow, the observer may face rearward to operate the release at the vehicle end of the towline in an emergency. In a stationary winch tow, the operator faces the pilot and operates the winch and there is no driver needed.
Many tow operations dispense with an observer preferring to let the driver perform some of the observer functions. In some cases such as aero tow, there is no possible way to have a separate observer. In platform launch, a second person may ride on the platform to try to deal with emergencies by slacking pressure on the winch or cutting the rope. In static line tow, the observer may face rearward to operate the release at the vehicle end of the towline in an emergency. In a stationary winch tow, the operator faces the pilot and operates the winch and there is no driver needed.
