Originally Posted by Major G

While all the talk of jet blast is interesting, I doubt it is why the towed in my plane at SFO. Tight turning radius dictates using a mechanical means to shorten the turn radius (i.e. using a tug). Likely, at that gate it is too difficult for the jet to make the radius required to clear the jetway and finish in the posiiton required for passenger loading. Therefore, they use the tug to turn the jet and bring it in.
Glenn

Originally Posted by Triple3

So I'll second the thesis that this is due to maneuvering that a 777 cannot do without external towing.