Powerback
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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 powerback.
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 blown up. One such example is that much of Northwest Airlines' fleet is capable of a powerback, but they only allow the DC-9 to powerback.
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.
