Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 33; Flight Crew Total 2559; Flight Crew Type 2559
Communication Breakdown; Situational Awareness; Distraction
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Ground Incursion Taxiway
General None Reported / Taken
Human Factors; Company Policy; Environment - Non Weather Related
Arrived at Gate XX ready for Flight ABC to ZZZ1. Preflight setup and pushback seemed to go correctly in accordance with 'COVID normal' protocols of flight deck sanitation; mask wear; and external 'threat awareness (recency of experience; industry impact; employee distraction; etc.). I recall coordinating with push crew and FO for ramp push clearance to Spot XX; with subsequent engine start clearance prior to setting brakes and release at Spot XX. I do not recall missing the required coordination from Ramp Control to metering and Ground prior to taxing from Spot XX; but have been advised that we did fail to obtain release/clearance from Ramp Control prior to subsequent taxi clearance with Ground. Perhaps the external distractions I had been so concerned about finally caught up to me.It is never my intention to disregard procedure and can only promise to be more diligent on internal threats (my own; included) in this new threat environment. Speak louder through the mask and ensure all communication and associated procedures are complete in step by step manner through verbalization; verification and monitoring to preclude error.
We called for push and were pushed to the top of the alley. The taxiway was directly in front of the aircraft and we switched to Ground after engine start to commence taxi. Have been informed ZZZ Ramp would like a call to switch us to Ground themselves.
Air carrier flight crew reported a taxiway incursion and stated distraction from COVID-19 pre-flight related procedures contributed to the event.