Flying is more than just about being airborne or performing takeoffs and landings. In fact, even experienced pilots may forget or become complacent about the remaining aspect of flying, that is, ground and taxiing procedures. In fact, more than a few aviation safety incidents or near misses have occurred simply while on the ground during a ground or taxiing procedure.
Hence and in an entry appropriately entitled Bermuda Triangle, John Ewing has made a very detailed post well worth reading by any pilot who may have come complacent during ground and taxiing procedures. John points out that planning, organization, and situational awareness on the ground is just as important as when you are already in the air. In fact, he points out that the FAA, in recognition of just how important safety on the ground is, has published AC 91-73A: Part 91 and Part 135 Single-Pilot Procedures During Taxi Operations and this publication outlines standard operating procedures (SOPs) that should be read by both new and experienced pilots.
John outlines some of these SOPs and emphasizes the importance of having a mental picture of the airport, keeping your eyes open and speaking up if you see any conflict or problem developing – especially at a busy airport. Moreover, he points out that he has noticed that as pilots gain experience, they tend to skip the step of writing down the taxi instructions they receive (Ask yourself whether you can really remember a more complicated taxiing instruction like "taxi 28 left via Delta, Zulu, and Zulu One, hold short 28 right" that he says he once received!)
The entry is well worth reading because John has also filled it with personal anecdotes and experiences that will have you asking yourself whether or not you have become to complacent during ground and taxiing operations.
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