Bob Moore wrote in
6.128:

Mxsmanic wrote
What does it mean when the crew of an aircraft look for "the pin"
held
by the ground crew after pushback?

They are looking for the Nose Gear Ground Locking Pin to insure
that it has been removed prior to flight. If not, the nose gear
will not retract.


Actually it's the steering bypass pin. It replaces the need to make sure
you've switched off the hydraulics prior to pushback like you did in the
old days.. (remember, no electrical changeover just in case those "A"
pumps become active and break the towbar)
The pin bypasses the hydraulics to the nosewheel steering.
Even old 72's have had this mod done in the interst of safety and of
conforming with everything else that's been built since the 70's.


bertie