What action should you take before crossing a taxiway?

Before crossing a taxiway, it is essential to make a complete stop and observe traffic. This action ensures that you assess the area thoroughly for any aircraft or vehicles that may be approaching. By stopping, you can check both directions, which is crucial because taxiways can be busy with moving aircraft and ground vehicles.

Taking this precaution helps enhance safety by allowing you to ensure the path is clear, minimizing the risk of accidents. Additionally, by being fully aware of the traffic around you, you can effectively communicate with ground control if needed and make informed decisions about when it is safe to proceed.

The other actions, such as proceeding slowly without stopping, looking only to one side, or calling the control tower, do not provide the same level of safety and situational awareness needed when crossing a taxiway.