In the flight profile, what is the second step that occurs after takeoff clearance?

After takeoff clearance is granted, the pilot must first complete the taxi phase, which involves moving the aircraft from its parking spot to the runway in preparation for takeoff. This phase is crucial for ensuring that all pre-flight checks and procedures are completed while navigating the aircraft safely along the designated taxiways. The taxi phase allows pilots to finalize any necessary checks, communicate with control towers, and prepare for departure in an organized manner.

Once the aircraft has reached the runway and received clearance to take off, the operations transition to the takeoff phase. The climb phase follows thereafter, during which the aircraft gains altitude. The check phase does not typically align with the sequence that immediately follows takeoff clearance. Thus, taxiing to the runway is logically the next step in the flight profile following clearance, making it the correct choice in this context.