Aero-Terms!

Aero-Terms are designed to be a daily reminder of the terms, names, acronyms and explanations of the unique language that populates the aviation world. Aerospace, sport aviation, fixed wing, helo, you name it... it's all fair game.

Aero-Terms should serve as a quick but intriguing reminder of the terms you may use every day, or an introduction to an aspects of the Aero-World you may not yet be familiar with. ANN also encourages readers to go beyond the FMI link, and further research any intriguing terms.

Suggestions for future Aero-Terms are ALWAYS welcome, as are additions or discussion of the explanations given for each Aero-Term.

Powerback

Powerback is used by aircraft to reverse using the power of their engines, In Europe only propeller aircraft tend to use powerbacks as a means of reversing, while in the USA some larger jet aircraft also perform powerbacks. While many aircraft are physically capable of performing powerbacks, many companies will impose restrictions on the practice, mainly due to the risk of foreign object damage from debris propelled into the air. Small metal objects are particularly dangerous as they can be propelled into terminal windows, employees on the ground or even the aircraft itself. In addition, in the United States, restrictions on powerbacks are enforced by the FAA, the airline that owns the aircraft, and the local aviation officials. Only certain gates at certain airports are approved for powerbacks, and are usually placarded as such. Many airlines impose stricter safety procedures for powerbacks, which often include disallowing a powerback under certain environmental conditions, such as rain or snow.

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