# backtrack

/ˈbækˌtɹæk/ (US) · /bˈæktɹæk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/backtrack
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

to go back to a previous place or time. In aviation, it means a pilot has to fly back to the airport because of a problem.

For teachers: to return to a previous position, time, or state. In an aviation context, it refers to the act of reversing course to return to the departure airport due to an emergency or mechanical failure.

## Examples

- The pilot had to backtrack because of the storm.
- After the engine failed shortly after takeoff, the pilot decided to backtrack to the airport for a safe landing.
- The flight crew was forced to backtrack toward the coast as the weather system rapidly deteriorated, leaving them with no other safe option for an emergency landing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.