Air carrier flight crew reported entering the ramp instead of the taxiway after missing a turn due to confusion from Taxiway R and T being closely parallel to each other; with pavement connecting the two surfaces.
Synopsis
Air carrier flight crew reported entering the ramp instead of the taxiway after missing a turn due to confusion from Taxiway R and T being closely parallel to each other; with pavement connecting the two surfaces.
Narrative
After landing on Runway 27C at ORD; I taxied the airplane clear of the runway onto Taxiway E2. ATC instructed us to taxi via E to R and hold short Runway 27L. After being given clearance to cross Runway 27L on R we were instructed to contact Ground Control. After crossing the runway and contacting Ground we were instructed to taxi R and hold short K. I acknowledged the taxi instructions with the FO. Approaching Taxiway K; before the aircraft had come to a stop; we were instructed by Ground to continue taxi via K; T; hold short A. I again acknowledged the taxi instructions with the FO as we crossed onto Taxiway K. I glanced at the taxi chart to get an idea of the taxi route; and continued ahead. We were then instructed by ATC to hold our position.I brought the aircraft to a stop; and ATC informed us that we had entered the midfield ramp non-movement area. I looked at the taxi chart and realized that we had taxied straight ahead on Taxiway R into the ramp instead of taking the slight right turn onto Taxiway T. Both taxiways are closely parallel to each other; and there is pavement connecting the two surfaces which caused confusion at night. After assessing the area; the FO and I determined that we had enough space to make a 180-degree turn on the ramp to rejoin Taxiway R. We coordinated with ATC; and were approved to make the turn to hold short Taxiway K. After making the turn; we were then instructed to continue taxi to the gate. The remainder of the taxi was uneventful.
Second reporter narrative
We were instructed to taxi to Romeo hold short of Kilo after landing 27C in ORD. Once on Romeo we accidentally passed Kilo briefly and stopped. ATC asked us to do a 180 as we said we were able to. We did the 180. ATC said this is a very common mistake made.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.