Which MSFS 2020 pushback tools are best and how do I use them?

For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020), GSX Pro is the best full-featured PC pushback tool, Toolbar Pushback is the best free route-planning option when compatible, and the built-in tug is the safest no-install choice, particularly on Xbox. Run only one pushback controller at a time to prevent tug and steering conflicts.

Which MSFS 2020 pushback tool should I choose?

Choose according to platform, aircraft compatibility and whether you need a complete turnaround service or simply a tug.

We recommend GSX Pro for regular airliner flying because it combines pushback with boarding, baggage, catering and other ramp activity. Our breakdown of GSX Pro's animated and customisable ground handling explains what it adds beyond the default tug.

Toolbar Pushback is the more focused freeware choice when you want to draw a route without installing an entire ground-services package. If the aircraft developer supplies its own pushback system or warns against generic tug utilities, use the aircraft's system instead.

How do I use the built-in MSFS 2020 pushback?

The built-in tug can be requested through the ATC ground-services menu, while the default keyboard profile also provides a basic pushback toggle.

1. Prepare the aircraft. Set the parking brake, close the doors and disconnect the jetway or stairs. Remove aircraft-specific chocks when the tug is connected or when the checklist instructs you to do so.
2. Request pushback. Open the ATC window, select Ground Services and request pushback where that option is available. With the default keyboard profile, Shift+P toggles basic pushback; customised control profiles may differ.
3. Command the turn. Use the ATC directional choices or assign the pushback direction commands in Controls Options. Interfaces do not always describe left and right from the same viewpoint, so make a short input and confirm the tail's movement.
4. Stop the tug. Request a stop or use the toggle again, set the parking brake and wait until the tug has disconnected before taxiing.

Our separate guide covers the full built-in tug workflow, control bindings and common faults. Do not steer with the rudder or tiller while the tug is controlling the nosewheel unless the selected tool specifically requires it.

How do I push back with GSX Pro?

GSX Pro handles pushback through its in-game toolbar panel and can use airport-specific or customised routes.

1. Install and activate GSX Pro. Follow our step-by-step GSX Pro installation and activation instructions, then confirm that its toolbar panel opens in MSFS 2020.
2. Prepare at the stand. Keep the parking brake set and make sure neither the default ATC tug nor an aircraft EFB pushback is active.
3. Request departure preparation. Open the GSX panel and choose its pushback-and-departure service. Select the offered direction or an airport-profile route that leaves the aircraft facing the required taxi direction.
4. Follow the prompts. GSX will instruct you when to remove chocks, release the parking brake and start engines. Follow those prompts rather than issuing commands through a second tool.
5. Finish the procedure. Set the brake when instructed and wait for the tug, towbar and bypass pin sequence to finish before moving the aircraft.

Airport profiles matter. A route designed for different scenery may put the tug through markings, buildings or parked equipment. Check the planned path before movement and leave room for tail swing and wingtip clearance.

How do I use Toolbar Pushback?

Toolbar Pushback lets PC users plan and control the manoeuvre from an in-game panel without the wider services supplied by GSX Pro.

1. Install the package. With MSFS 2020 closed, place the extracted package in the simulator's Community folder. The folder containing manifest.json must not be buried inside an extra wrapper folder.
2. Open the panel. Restart the simulator, load at a parking stand and select Toolbar Pushback from the in-game toolbar.
3. Plan the route. Use its pre-planning view to draw the reverse path, finishing with the aircraft aligned for taxi. The plotted line is not a guarantee of wingtip or tail clearance.
4. Start pushback. Connect the tug, release the parking brake when prompted and monitor the aircraft rather than relying only on the route display.
5. Stop and disconnect. Set the brake at the final position, end pushback and wait for the tug to clear.

Check compatibility with the aircraft before using this option. If the tug oscillates, the nosewheel jumps or aircraft systems behave incorrectly, stop and switch to the aircraft's native controller or the default tug.

Why is pushback not working in MSFS 2020?

Most pushback failures come from brake or chock state, two active pushback systems, an incompatible add-on build, or mismatched airport and aircraft geometry.

• The tug connects but the aircraft does not move: remove EFB chocks and release the parking brake only when instructed. A physical brake switch can immediately reapply the brake if its hardware position disagrees with the cockpit.
• The tug turns or stops unexpectedly: cancel any default ATC request and disable automated assistance that may be handling ground services. Never run GSX, Toolbar Pushback and an aircraft EFB controller together.
• The toolbar icon is missing: restart the simulator after installation and check for an extra nested folder above manifest.json. Also confirm that the toolbar panel has not been disabled.
• The aircraft jumps, spins or clips into the apron: the scenery's parking position or the aircraft's nosewheel contact point may not suit that tool. Reposition at the stand or use a different pushback method rather than forcing the manoeuvre.
• Nosewheel steering remains disabled: wait for the tug and bypass-pin procedure to finish, then centre any rudder or tiller hardware before taxiing.

Can I use GSX Pro or Toolbar Pushback on Xbox?

GSX Pro and Community-folder pushback utilities require a PC; Xbox cannot run their external Windows components or accept manually installed Community packages.

On Xbox, use the built-in ground-services tug or a pushback function included with the aircraft. Assign the pushback toggle and directional commands to convenient controller buttons if the ATC menu feels too slow, but avoid binding them over flight-critical controls.