PA.II.E.R5FAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Risk management
Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.
Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.
Bottom line
Expectation bias often occurs on the ground while taxiing: pilots may expect a particular taxi route and perceive the clearance as expected rather than as given by ATC. A pilot given the same taxi instructions by ATC may start expecting those same instructions and not realize they no longer apply, and it only takes missing one instruction or turn to generate an accident. Despite having familiarity with the airport, pilots should carefully review their complete taxi plan.
FAA references
- AFH ch. 2 (p. 2-19) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- RMH ch. 6 (pp. 6-2–6-3) — FAA-H-8083-2A
- AC 91-73, para. 7b — AC No: 91-73B
- AIM 4-3-18 (Taxiing) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
- PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-33) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- PHAK ch. 14 (p. 14-31) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
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