Fast return switch

A fast return switch was a component of a TARDIS that returned the vessel either back through time or to a previous location in space and time.

After leaving Skaro, the First Doctor used his TARDIS's fast return switch in an attempt to return Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright to 1963. However, the spring in the switch became stuck. This would have caused the ship to go back in time all the way to the beginning of the Universe. As this would have resulted in its destruction, the TARDIS crashed itself and attempted to warn its crew of the danger, eventually succeeding. (TV: The Edge of Destruction)

Later, Susan used the fast return switch to return to 1692 Salem Village and prevent the witch trials from occurring. Afterwards, the Doctor disconnected the switch. (PROSE: The Witch Hunters)


 * It was later reconnected under unknown circumstances.

The Doctor once used the fast return switch to return a young boy to 1965. (PROSE: The Little Drummer Boy)

The Second Doctor also used the fast return switch to bring King Gavin and King Conrad together. (PROSE: Twin Piques)

Charley Pollard used the fast return switch to return to 305 and rescue the Eighth Doctor. (AUDIO: Seasons of Fear) Later, Charley used the fast return switch to fly the TARDIS back into the path of time torpedoes. (AUDIO: Neverland)

When the Eleventh Doctor fought the Shroud, Clara Oswald used the fast return switch to draw the Shroud to Venofax, where the planet's avocado-tainted sea would significantly weaken the Shroud (Avocado being a natural anti-depressant and the Shroud feeding on grief). (PROSE: Shroud of Sorrow)