What is an indication that an aircraft is about to push back from a gate?

The presence of both wing walkers at the wingtips and the activation of anti-collision lights signify that an aircraft is preparing to push back from the gate.

Wing walkers are ground personnel stationed at the wingtips who help ensure safety as the aircraft maneuvers, providing visual guidance and alerting to any potential hazards. Their presence indicates that the aircraft is indeed in the process of preparing for pushback, as they are responsible for directing the safe movement of the aircraft while ensuring that no obstacles are in the way.

Additionally, when the anti-collision lights are activated, it serves as a warning to other personnel and vehicles in the vicinity that the aircraft is about to move. These lights are a standard safety measure that enhances visibility, signaling that the aircraft is in an operational mode and should be treated with caution.

Together, these two indicators—wing walkers and anti-collision lights—combined demonstrate that the aircraft is poised for pushback, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in aviation operations. The gate bridge, while crucial for embarking and disembarking passengers, does not indicate potential movement away from the gate and hence is not a significant factor in signaling the pushback readiness.