Taxiing is one of the most underestimated phases of flight, yet it’s where many runway incursions and close calls begin. While pilots spend hours mastering takeoffs and landings, ground operations often receive far less attention. On Day 23 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge 2026, MzeroA’s Martin highlights a simple, but powerful safety tool pilots can use at any airport: mastering a progressive taxi with clear communication.
What is a Progressive Taxi and Why it Matters
A progressive taxi is a step-by-step set of taxi instructions provided by air traffic control to guide pilots who are unfamiliar with an airport or need additional assistance. Instead of receiving a long, complex clearance, pilots receive instructions one segment at a time, reducing workload and confusion.
Progressive taxi instructions are especially useful at large or unfamiliar airports, during nighttime or low-visibility operations, or when construction and NOTAMs alter normal taxi routes. Asking for help early can prevent wrong turns, runway incursions, and unnecessary stress.
When Pilots Should Request a Progressive Taxi
Pilots should never hesitate to request a progressive taxi when uncertainty exists. The best time to ask is before confusion sets in, not after. Situations that warrant a progressive taxi include complex taxi routes with multiple runway crossings, unfamiliar airport layouts, and moments when a pilot simply does not feel 100% confident in the clearance received.
Air traffic controllers expect and encourage these requests. Controllers would rather issue clear, step-by-step instructions than manage the aftermath of a ground safety incident.
How to Request a Progressive Taxi Clearly
Requesting a progressive taxi is straightforward and does not require special phrasing. A pilot can simply state they are unfamiliar with the airport and request progressive taxi instructions. Another option is to ask ATC to repeat the taxi clearance and include a request for progressive guidance.
Clear communication is key. Controllers will provide instructions in manageable segments, calling out each turn as needed to keep taxi operations safe and efficient.
Pilot Responsibilities During a Progressive Taxi
Even with progressive taxi instructions, pilot-in-command responsibilities do not change. Pilots must keep their heads outside of the flight deck, scan taxiway signs and markings, and avoid fixating on airport diagrams or moving maps. Progressive taxi guidance supports situational awareness; it does not replace it.
Reading back all hold short instructions is mandatory, not optional. Pilots must also listen carefully and maintain awareness of their position at all times. Progressive taxis are a safety tool, not an autopilot.
Common Progressive Taxi Mistakes to Avoid
Several common errors reduce the effectiveness of progressive taxi operations. Waiting too long to ask for help increases risk. Failing to read back and hold short instructions creates dangerous misunderstandings. Relying too heavily on moving maps instead of listening closely to ATC can also lead to errors.
When used correctly, mastering a progressive taxi with clear communication becomes one of the simplest ways pilots can improve ground safety and confidence at any airport.
Safer Pilot Challenge 2026
The Safer Pilot Challenge is our yearly vow to help you become a smarter, safer pilot, and it runs all month long every January, wrapping up with our big livestream finale on January 31! We’re giving away prizes throughout the month, so be sure to watch each YouTube video and leave the specific comment to enter for a chance to win. Are you committing to 31 for 31 days of the Safer Pilot Challenge? If you love our free content, just imagine what our full courses can do for you. We’d love to welcome you into our ground schools! Start today with a free 2-week trial and see if MzeroA is the right fit for your aviation journey!