Why are fillets used for aircraft that use cockpit over centerline taxiing?

Fillets play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of aircraft during taxiing, particularly for those that utilize a cockpit over centerline taxiing approach. The primary purpose of using fillets in this context is to help maintain the Taxiway Edge Safety Margin.

Fillets are designed to create a smooth transition between the aircraft and the taxiway edge, which is vital for preventing the aircraft from straying too close to the edge of the taxiway. By providing a more rounded and expanded surface around the landing gear, fillets help to minimize the risk of the aircraft's wheels encroaching upon areas that could pose hazards, such as grass or unpaved surfaces adjacent to the taxiway. This capability is especially important in environments where precise maneuvering is required.

Maintaining this safety margin is essential for ensuring both the safety of the aircraft and the efficiency of airport operations. It allows greater control and reduces the likelihood of accidents related to taxiing operations, contributing to overall safety in airport operations without necessarily altering the physical dimensions of the taxiway itself.