Which term describes helicopter movement above the surface at speeds generally above 20 knots and below 100 feet AGL, with the last option being the correct term?

• A. Hover Taxi
• B. Ground Taxi
• C. Air Taxi
• D. Air Taxiing

Answer: (D)

Air taxiing describes moving a helicopter through the air close to the surface with forward speed, typically above 20 knots and below 100 feet above ground level. This is a distinct regime from hovering in place (even with a slight forward drift, you’re still essentially in a hover) and from ground taxiing (where the aircraft is on the surface and moving along the ground). In air taxiing, you’re in the flying state near the ground, using translational lift to maintain altitude while traveling horizontally. This term fits the scenario of moving above the surface at low altitude and modest speed, which is why it’s the correct description. The other terms refer to different motions: hovering near the surface, moving on the ground, or a generic service term rather than the active near-surface flight described.