Definition
The pilot's verbatim repetition of an air traffic control clearance or instruction back to the controller, used to confirm that the message was received and understood correctly. Certain items — such as runway assignments, altitude assignments, altimeter settings, vectors, and hold short instructions — must be read back per FAA procedures.
Plain English
When ATC tells you to do something, you say it back to them word-for-word so both sides know you heard it right.
Context Anchor
Used during radio communication with air traffic control, especially when receiving an instrument clearance, altitude assignment, heading, route, runway instruction, or hold instruction.
Derivation
A simple compound of 'read' (to speak aloud) and 'back' (in return). The word reflects exactly what happens: the pilot speaks the clearance back to the controller.
Why Pilots Care
Verbal confirmation prevents miscommunication that could lead to altitude deviations, airspace incursions, or runway conflicts.
Analogy
Like repeating a phone number back to the person who gave it to you to make sure you copied it correctly.
Intuition Check
Readback does not mean silently reading a clearance again. In aviation, it means speaking the important parts back over the radio so the controller can check them.
Example Sentence 1
After the controller issued the clearance, the pilot's readback included the assigned altitude, heading, and squawk code.
Example Sentence 2
After receiving taxi instructions, the pilot provided a readback that included the specific runway and hold-short point.