4.1 Cockpit Preparation

Objective 
 To ensure the aircraft is correctly configured, powered, and programmed prior to engine start. 
 
 Crew Concept 
 
 PF (Pilot Flying): 
 
 Reviews flight plan 
 Performs MCDU setup 
 Cross-checks entries 
 
 
 PM (Pilot Monitoring): 
 
 Performs cockpit setup 
 Powers aircraft systems 
 Executes checklists 
 
 
 
 
 Initial Cockpit Setup 
 PM: 
 
 BAT 1 + BAT 2 → ON 
 External Power → ON (if available) 
 
 Check: 
 
 ECAM displays active 
 No abnormal warnings 
 
 
 Overhead Panel Setup (PM) 
 
 Fuel Pumps → ON 
 Hydraulic Panel → CHECK 
 Electrical Panel → CHECK 
 Air Conditioning → SET 
 
 ADIRS: 
 
 Set all IR selectors → NAV 
 
 
 Cockpit Lighting (PM) 
 
 Set as required for conditions 
 
 
 MCDU Initialization (PF) 
 INIT A Page: 
 
 FROM / TO → Set departure & arrival airport 
 Flight Number → INSERT 
 Cost Index → SET 
 Cruise Level → SET 
 
 
 Flight Plan Page: 
 
 Insert route (airways / waypoints) 
 Check for discontinuities 
 Insert SID (Standard Instrument Departure) 
 Verify routing 
 
 
 INIT B Page: 
 
 Block Fuel → INSERT 
 Zero Fuel Weight → INSERT 
 
 
 Performance Setup: 
 
 V1 / VR / V2 → CALCULATE & INSERT 
 FLEX Temperature → SET (if applicable) 
 Thrust Reduction / Acceleration Altitude → SET 
 
 
 FMGS Crosscheck 
 PM cross-checks all entries: 
 
 Route correctness 
 Fuel values 
 Performance data 
 
 
 Flight Instruments Setup 
 Both pilots: 
 
 Set Barometric Reference 
 Set Initial Altitude 
 Set Vertical Display Selector on Above 
 
 
 Takeoff Briefing (PF) 
 Must include: 
 
 Runway 
 SID 
 Initial altitude 
 Expected routing 
 Threats & considerations 
 
 
 Before Start Checklist 
 Performed when all preparation is complete. 
 
 Key Principles 
 
 Always verify MCDU entries 
 Cross-check between PF and PM 
 Avoid rushing the setup 
 
 
 Philosophy 
 A correct cockpit preparation ensures: 
 
 Reduced workload during taxi and takeoff 
 Fewer errors in flight 
 Better situational awareness 
 
 A rushed or incomplete setup increases risk significantly.