FAA Ground School Practice Test

What is the first action after starting an aircraft engine?

1. Check the oil level

2. Adjust proper RPM and check for desired indications on the engine gauges

3. Test all flight controls

4. Report to air traffic control

The correct answer is: Adjust proper RPM and check for desired indications on the engine gauges

The first action after starting an aircraft engine is to adjust the proper RPM and check for desired indications on the engine gauges. This step is crucial because it ensures that the engine is running smoothly and efficiently. After starting the engine, a pilot needs to monitor the engine's performance, which includes checking the oil pressure, temperature, RPM, and other indicators to confirm that the engine is operating within its normal parameters. This process helps to identify any immediate issues that may need attention before proceeding with further steps in the pre-flight checklist. Ensuring that the engine is performing correctly is vital for safety and operational integrity before moving on to other checks or completing flight preparations. Checking the oil level, testing flight controls, and reporting to air traffic control are also important elements of flight preparation and safety. However, they follow after confirming that the engine is operational and in good condition, thus making the adjustment of RPM and checking engine gauges the first priority after engine start.