From which direction should crews approach and withdraw from an aircraft?

Approaching and withdrawing from an aircraft is critical for ensuring the safety of crew members and any personnel on the ground. The safest method is to approach from the front of the aircraft, but within a 45-degree angle. This allows the crew to maintain visibility of the cockpit and the pilots, avoiding blind spots. It also ensures that personnel can be seen by the flight crew and vice versa, which helps prevent accidents. This practice is aligned with safety protocols, as crews can maintain effective communication with the pilots and are less likely to be in the path of moving propellers or other potential hazards that might be present at the rear or sides of the aircraft. Thus, approaching from the front while keeping within this 45-degree limit balances safety with operational efficiency.