Who is in charge of the aircraft during a move?

The move director is responsible for the overall coordination and safe movement of the aircraft on the ground. This role is critical to ensure that all steps involved in taxiing, parking, or repositioning the aircraft are performed safely and efficiently. The move director communicates directives to the ground crew and the aircraft pilot, managing traffic and ensuring that the move adheres to safety protocols. They have a comprehensive understanding of the airfield layout, any potential hazards, and the specific requirements for moving different types of aircraft.

While the pilot has control of the aircraft's operation, particularly during taxiing, it is the move director who oversees the entire process, coordinating with various personnel to ensure that every detail is covered. The ground crew chief plays a vital operational role but focuses more on supervising the ground handling crew rather than directing the aircraft move itself. The aircraft commander also holds significant responsibility for the aircraft's safety but is typically focused on flight operations rather than ground maneuvering. Therefore, in the context of on-ground movements, the move director's position is paramount for ensuring safety and coordination.