What should you monitor when taxiing at a tower-controlled airport?

When taxiing at a tower-controlled airport, it is crucial to monitor the ground frequency. This frequency specifically communicates instructions and clearances related to ground operations, including taxiing. Ground control provides aircraft with essential information such as which taxiway to take, when to hold short of a runway, and any other pertinent updates regarding other ground traffic or potential hazards.

Monitoring the ground frequency ensures that you remain aware of any instructions from air traffic control as they guide you safely to your departure runway or from the runway after landing. It is important to maintain communication and adhere to the directives given by ground control to enhance safety and efficiency during ground operations.

Other frequencies, such as the air traffic control frequency for the active runway, are important, but they are not primarily used for taxiing. Keeping an ear on the approach and departure frequencies is irrelevant when on the ground as they pertain to airborne traffic rather than ground movements. This is why ground frequency is the proper choice while taxiing at a tower-controlled airport.