Prepare for: Before-Takeoff Check (Run-Up)
The run-up confirms the engine, controls, instruments and settings are ready, and sets up your takeoff briefing.
Your CFI's syllabus and your airplane's POH come first. This page is a general study aid to help you show up prepared.
What you'll do
- Position into the wind if possible, clear of other traffic, with brakes firmly set.
- Run the POH checklist: controls free and correct, instruments set, fuel selector, mixture, trim for takeoff.
- At the POH run-up RPM, check each magneto for RPM drop and difference within limits, and check carburetor heat if equipped.
- Check engine gauges in the green and the vacuum/suction or electrical indications.
- Brief the takeoff: runway, rotation speed, climb speed, and what you'll do if the engine fails at different points.
The standard you'll be held to
Quoted from the current FAA Airman Certification Standards for each level that tests this.
Private Pilot ACS (FAA-S-ACS-6C)Task PA.II.F · Before Takeoff Check
- Review takeoff performance.
- Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
- Position the airplane appropriately considering wind direction and the presence of any aircraft, vessels, or buildings as applicable.
- Divide attention inside and outside the flight deck.
- Verify that engine parameters and airplane configuration are suitable.
Read it in the FAA handbooks
The official chapters behind this page. Each link opens the exact chapter, free on faa.gov. See the full Study Library.
Prepare the night before
- Write out your takeoff briefing ahead of time.
- Know the POH magneto drop limits for your airplane.
Common mistakes
- Letting the airplane creep forward during the run-up.
- Saying 'controls free and correct' without actually watching the surfaces move.
- Skipping the emergency briefing.
Questions to ask your instructor
- What mag-drop numbers would make you cancel?
- Can we walk through the engine-failure-after-takeoff plan for this runway?
Check yourself
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