What are Taxiways?

• A. Taxiways
• B. Runways
• C. Vehicle Service Road
• D. Ramp Areas

Answer: (A)

Taxiways are the paved routes that guide airplanes as they move on the ground between runways and other parts of the airport, such as terminals and hangars. They are the paths aircraft use to taxi to and from runways, gates, and service areas, not the places where planes take off or land.

They’re different from runways, which are the strips used for takeoffs and landings; from ramp areas (the apron around terminals where planes park and are serviced); and from Vehicle Service Roads, which are for ground vehicles and not aircraft movement. On the airfield you’ll follow taxiway centerlines and signs, and you’ll need clearance to enter or cross near active runways. Recognizing these as the routes aircraft use to navigate around the airport helps you understand where planes will be versus where planes aren’t supposed to go.