A taxiway is a designated pathway at an airport used to guide aircraft between runways and other operational areas, such as terminals, aprons, hangars, and maintenance zones. Taxiways are essential for managing ground traffic efficiently and safely, helping aircraft move between takeoff, landing, and parking without interrupting active runway operations.

Unlike runways, taxiways are not used for takeoff or landing—they're solely for ground movement.

---

What Is the Function of a Taxiway?

Taxiways serve as the ground-level road system for aircraft at an airport. They:

• Connect runways to gates, hangars, aprons, and terminals
• Help aircraft exit the runway after landing
• Support movement between terminals or maintenance areas
• Reduce runway congestion by routing aircraft around active runways

These paths are carefully marked with signage, painted lines, and lights to assist pilots in navigating safely on the ground, even in low-visibility conditions.

---

Taxiway Markings and Lighting

• Centerline markings guide aircraft along the taxi path
• Edge lights are typically blue and outline the edges of taxiways at night or during low visibility
• Signs identify taxiway names (e.g., “Taxiway B”) and indicate upcoming intersections or directions

This system helps pilots avoid runway incursions and ensures safe movement even at the world’s busiest airports.

---

Types of Taxiways

Different taxiways serve different purposes:

• Parallel Taxiways: Run alongside runways to allow aircraft to queue for takeoff or exit quickly after landing
• Exit Taxiways: Allow aircraft to leave the runway after landing; high-speed exits improve runway efficiency
• Connector Taxiways: Link different areas of the airport or serve as shortcuts between terminals, hangars, and aprons

---

Examples of Taxiway Systems

• JFK Airport (New York): Features a dense network of taxiways to manage its heavy international traffic
• Changi Airport (Singapore): Optimized for efficiency, minimizing taxi times and delays

---

Why Taxiways Matter for Travelers

While passengers may not think much about them, taxiways directly affect:

• Taxi time after landing or before takeoff
• Delays caused by ground congestion
• Fuel use and environmental impact of aircraft on the ground

Airports with efficient taxiway systems offer smoother operations and fewer delays—especially valuable on long-haul, international, or business-class trips where schedule reliability matters.