Plain English Meaning

When ATC tells you something important, you say it back to them in your own transmission so they can confirm you heard it right.

Full Definition

The repeating of a clearance, instruction, or other information by the receiver back to the sender, in the same sequence and using the same wording, so the sender can verify it was received and understood correctly.

Context Anchor

Used in radio communication with air traffic control, especially after receiving a clearance, route, altitude, runway assignment, or hold-short instruction.

Derivation

Plain English compound: 'read' (speak aloud what was given) plus 'back' (return to the sender). The phrase entered radio and to mean returning a to its origin so can be checked.