Why are controlled taxiways important at an airport?

Controlled taxiways are crucial at an airport because they serve to regulate and manage the movement of both vehicles and aircraft in a safe and organized manner. This is particularly important in high-traffic environments like airports, where the risk of accidents and collisions can increase without proper controls in place. Controlled taxiways designate specific routes for aircraft and vehicles, helping to prevent any potential conflicts that could arise when different types of traffic interact.

By providing a structured environment for movement, controlled taxiways also ensure that all operators — whether they are pilots or ground vehicles — are aware of their designated paths and can operate more predictably, thus enhancing the overall safety and efficiency of airport operations.