What must be done before driving on the taxiway?

Before driving on the taxiway, it is essential to receive clearance from Air Traffic Control. This step is critical because air traffic controllers manage the flow of aircraft and vehicles in the airside area, ensuring safety and coordination. They provide instructions to prevent conflicts between various types of traffic, including aircraft and ground vehicles. By obtaining clearance, a driver confirms that it is safe to proceed and that there are no active movements or hazards on the taxiway at that time.

Checking for other vehicles already on the taxiway, ensuring passenger readiness, or waiting for the road to be clear of all aircraft, while they may seem necessary for safety, do not replace the fundamental requirement of obtaining explicit permission from Air Traffic Control prior to entering the taxiway. This process solidifies the protocol for maintaining order and safety within the airside environment.