Backtrack

A backtrack is the manoeuvre of taxiing or towing an aircraft along a runway in a direction opposite to the normal take-off direction. Backtracks are routinely used at aerodromes where full-length runway access is not available from a parallel taxiway, or where the aircraft requires the full runway length.

Backtrack Procedures

At a controlled aerodrome, a backtrack clearance must be received from the control tower before entering the runway. At an uncontrolled aerodrome, the pilot must broadcast intentions and carry out a thorough scan of the approach path before taxiing onto the active runway. The aircraft should complete the turn and be lined up promptly to minimize time on the runway.

Safety Considerations

• Confirm no traffic on final before entering the runway for backtrack
• Make appropriate radio calls (position and intentions) on ATF or MF
• At night or in low visibility, confirm runway edge lighting is functional
• Do not dawdle — minimise time on the runway during the backtrack

Related Terms

See also: Runway, Aerodrome Traffic Frequency, Hold Short.