SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-checklists-while-stopped

When should taxi-time checklists be completed, per the FAA?

While the airplane is stopped, so your eyes stay outside while moving.

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  1. While the airplane is stopped ✔
  2. While taxiing at a steady speed
  3. While crossing runways

Why: The PHAK says to stay heads up with eyes outside while taxiing. All checklists should be done while the aircraft is stopped, and there is no place for chatter during taxi.

Huh, didn't know that: If you are unsure of the route, you can ask ATC for progressive taxi, which gives step-by-step directions.

The dad joke
Why did the pilot stop to read his checklist? He didn't want to taxi and text.
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References

Answer: While the airplane is stopped. The PHAK says to stay heads up with eyes outside while taxiing. All checklists should be done while the aircraft is stopped, and there is no place for chatter during taxi.

  1. PHAK FAA-H-8083-25C Chapter 14, Airport Operations www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/16_phak_ch14.pdf
    All checklists should be completed while the aircraft is stopped.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Test yourself in the game

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