What does "taxiing" refer to in the context of aviation?

In aviation, "taxiing" specifically refers to the movement of an aircraft on the ground using its own power. This phase occurs before takeoff and after landing, as the aircraft navigates from the gate to the runway or vice versa. During taxiing, pilots utilize the aircraft’s engines and control surfaces to maneuver on the taxiways and runways while adhering to air traffic control instructions.

This definition encompasses the importance of ground control operations, emphasizing both safety and efficiency in transitioning between different phases of flight. Understanding taxiing is fundamental for pilots, as it includes managing speed, direction, and communication with ground services to ensure a seamless flight operation.