What is "pushback"

alt. 1 The act of repelling (an enemy, etc). 2 A procedure in which an aircraft is pushed backwards away from the gate by some external force, usually a special tractor. 3 criticism of or resistance to a proposal, stance, or event. 4 (context rare nonstandard English) backlash of any sort. n. 1 The act of repelling (an enemy, etc). 2 A procedure in which an aircraft is pushed backwards away from the gate by some external force, usually a special tractor. 3 criticism of or resistance to a proposal, stance, or event. 4 (context rare nonstandard English) backlash of any sort.

In aviation, pushback is an airport procedure during which an aircraft is pushed backwards away from an airport gate by external power. Pushbacks are carried out by special, low-profile vehicles called pushback tractors or tugs.

Although many aircraft are capable of moving themselves backwards on the ground using reverse thrust (a procedure referred to as a powerback), the resulting jet blast or prop wash may cause damage to the terminal building or equipment. Engines close to the ground may also blow sand and debris forward and then suck it into the engine, causing damage to the engine. A pushback is therefore the preferred method to move the aircraft away from the gate.