Besides barricades, what alternative is used to block a temporarily closed taxiway?

A raised and lighted yellow cross serves as a clear visual indicator to pilots that a taxiway is temporarily closed. This signaling method is crucial for safe operation at busy airports such as O'Hare. The raised and lighted nature of the yellow cross enhances visibility, particularly in low-light conditions or poor weather, ensuring that approaching aircraft can easily recognize the closed area.

This method is a standardized procedure used in aviation to prevent confusion, helping to maintain safety and efficiency on the airport grounds. Additionally, the yellow designation signifies caution, further alerting pilots to look for alternative routes. Other methods of blocking a taxiway, like painted markings or cones, may not be as immediately noticeable from the cockpit or could be misinterpreted, thus the raised and lighted yellow cross is the preferred and most effective tool for communicating a taxiway closure.