Taxiing at Night

Source: www.pilotworkshop.com/tips/night-taxi, Featuring Bob Nardiello

Subscriber question:

"I find it difficult to taxi at night, especially when the visibility is low. What can I do to make it easier?" - Walter B.

Bob:

"Navigation on the taxiways is much more difficult at night and may require you to refer to your taxiway diagram even at airports with which you are familiar. Obstacles, taxiway edges, or poor taxiway surface conditions may not be readily visible at times.

When taxiing at night, take your time, stop to refer to the taxiway diagram when in doubt, and feel free to request help from ground control at towered airports. Do this by requesting a progressive taxi to your destination, whether it be to the takeoff runway or an FBO on the field.

Poor navigation (at night) on the airport surface could lead to a runway incursion, which could be a deadly situation at worst or a violation at best."

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