Engine Start Protocols

Essential Safety Steps for Starting Piston Aircraft Engines Emphasized in Training

Your flight instructor surely covered the safety protocols for starting the engine during your first lesson and watches closely to make sure you remember the steps: First, turn the battery and beacon on to alert anyone nearby that your airplane is about to start. Then look forward, left, right, and rearward to visually “clear” the area. After that, crack the window open and shout “Clear prop!” in a loud and mighty voice before you engage the starter.