Definition
An example of a named taxiway at an airport, identified by the letter B and spoken as 'Bravo' using the ICAO phonetic alphabet. Taxiways are the paved paths that connect runways, ramps, and parking areas, and each one is given a letter (or letter-number combination) so it can be referenced clearly on charts, signs, and radio calls.
Plain English
The taxiway labeled with the letter B. Pilots and controllers say 'Bravo' instead of 'B' so the name cannot be confused with another letter over the radio.
Context Anchor
Seen on airport taxiway signs, pavement markings, airport diagrams, and heard in ground-control instructions.
Derivation
The word 'taxiway' comes from 'taxi,' which in aviation means moving an aircraft on the ground under its own power. 'Bravo' is the ICAO phonetic word for the letter B, chosen because it sounds distinct from other letters when transmitted over a radio.
Why Pilots Care
Correct identification prevents runway incursions and ensures safe routing between runways, ramps, and other taxiways.
Intuition Check
“Bravo” does not mean praise or approval here. It means the letter B in the aviation phonetic alphabet.
Example Sentence 1
Ground control instructed the pilot to 'taxi to Runway 27 via Taxiway Bravo.'
Example Sentence 2
Ground control cleared the aircraft to cross Taxiway Bravo and continue to the terminal.