Pushback
The controlled rearward movement of an aircraft from its stand, performed by a tug or tractor under the direction of ground crew.
Full Definition
Pushback (also written as push-back in some style guides) is the operation of moving an aircraft backwards from its parking stand, as aircraft engines cannot effectively reverse the aircraft under their own power. It is executed by a ground-handling tug attached to the aircraft's nose gear or, in towbarless operations, cradling the nose gear directly. The operation requires coordination between the flight crew, the pushback crew, and the apron or ground movement controller. Editors should note that 'pushback' is increasingly preferred as a single word in operational documents, though 'push-back' still appears in many IATA and airline manuals.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred spelling in most current operational manuals is the closed form 'pushback'. If the house style uses 'push-back', apply it consistently. Do not confuse with 'towing,' which refers to moving an aircraft over a longer distance.
In Context
- "Pushback clearance must be obtained from ground control before any rearward aircraft movement commences." — Standard Operating Procedure — Ground Handling
- "The pushback crew must confirm nose-gear pin insertion before disconnecting the towbar." — Aircraft Handling Checklist