Which items are typically included in the normal Before Start and Before Takeoff checklists for the A320?

• A. Doors/seat belts secured; parking brake set; aircraft configured (flaps, trim); flight controls checked; flight plan loaded; navigation radios tuned.
• B. Engines started; doors closed; cabin lights on; flight plan finalized.
• C. Fuel quantity checked; weather radar activated; cabin crew briefing completed.
• D. Cargo loaded; landing gear down; autopilot engaged.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to verify readiness and proper configuration before you power up and begin taxiing. Securing the doors and seat belts ensures everyone is safe and nothing can become a hazard if a start sequence is initiated. Setting the parking brake prevents unintended movement while you complete system checks. Getting the aircraft configured for takeoff, including flap settings and trim, places the airplane in the correct aerodynamic state for a stable departure. Checking the flight controls for full, free movement helps detect any binding, obstruction, or control issues before takeoff. Having the flight plan loaded and the navigation radios tuned ensures the crew’s navigation data and sources are current and ready to guide the aircraft along the intended route, minimizing the chance of misnavigation once airborne. These elements collectively ensure a safe, orderly transition from ground to flight. Other tasks like starting engines, turning on cabin lights, or activating weather radar happen in different phases of the sequence and are not part of the normal pre-start, pre-takeoff checklist.