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How do modern aircraft steer on the ground? Do they have a steering wheel which moves the front wheel (left/right).

I see that there is a Tug vehicle which pushes the aircraft backwards, so the aircraft does not have a reverse gear for sure.

Does the aircraft use the Engine thrust to move forward on the ground or does it have separate motor which propels the wheels?

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All of these methods are used.

Nosewheel steering is common on most commercial aircraft using a tiller. Rudder, differential braking, differential thrust and even motors in the wheels (experimental only as far as I know) are also used, as seen in this video.

Engine thrust is used to move forward but differential thrust might also be used when negotiating tight turns. (Details here)

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  • $\begingroup$ You beat me to the answer. Want to expand yours by adding a part about electric taxi motors being tested? I intended to mention that. $\endgroup$
    – SentryRaven
    Commented Feb 2, 2015 at 9:41
  • $\begingroup$ @Simon Thanks for the answer and the Wiki link. I think the Wiki page answers lot of my queries. $\endgroup$
    – ViSu
    Commented Feb 2, 2015 at 10:50

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