Plain English Meaning

Putting the airplane down somewhere that isn't an airport, usually because something has gone wrong and the pilot can't reach a runway. In training, pilots practice the approach to such a landing without actually touching down.

Full Definition

Landings made at locations other than an established airport, typically following an engine failure or other emergency that prevents reaching a runway. In a training context, off-airport landings are practiced as simulated forced landings to fields, roads, or other open terrain, with the goal of teaching the pilot to select a suitable site, manage the glide, and arrive over the chosen spot at a controllable speed and configuration.