BEFORE TAKEOFF: RECONCILE DATA, AIRCRAFT AND CLEARANCE
Before runway entry, crosscheck runway and entry point, takeoff result, actual flap and trim, initial altitude and guidance setup. Arm the ground spoilers and select the required takeoff autobrake mode. The configuration and preparation should describe the same takeoff as the performance calculation. [74, PDF pp. 2-4] [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064]
Carry out T.O CONFIG and review the complete ECAM takeoff memo and remaining status items. Confirm Cabin Ready following completion of the cabin sequence. The test, computed data, aircraft configuration and cabin state are complementary checks; completion of one does not establish all the others. [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064] [81, Virtual Purser; VP Behaviour]
A changed runway, entry point, weather or loading sends the affected work back through calculation, entry and briefing. Complete that revision before committing to runway entry. A short pause here leaves much less to unravel once the takeoff has begun. [74, PDF pp. 8-9]
IN PRACTICE: Before takeoff: close the remaining gaps
Before you begin: The aircraft is at the assigned holding point or another cleared position. Takeoff performance is current for the actual runway, intersection, loading and weather.
1. Check the runway and entry together
Action. Compare the runway designator and planned entry point with the airport chart, signs, MCDU departure and EFB performance result. If any part changed, revise the affected calculation and entries before continuing.
Check. Route programming and performance refer to the same physical piece of runway in front of the aircraft. [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064] [23, PDF pp. 1034-1038]
2. Read back the takeoff numbers
Action. Review the accepted V1, VR, V2, thrust choice, flap setting and trim against the calculation. Confirm the current gross-weight/loading picture behind them.
Check. The departure uses the final data set, not a partly updated collection of entries. [23, PDF pp. 1034-1038] [23, PDF pp. 1065-1072]
3. Set the initial guidance
Action. Check both flight directors and the cleared initial altitude on the FCU. Confirm whether the clearance calls for the programmed SID or a selected heading, and set the lateral preparation accordingly.
Check. The first airborne guidance will follow the actual clearance. A selected-heading clearance has not been left with an assumed NAV departure. [23, PDF pp. 1065-1072] [21, PDF pp. 107-116]
4. Prepare stopping and high-lift systems
Action. Arm the ground spoilers, select MAX on the autobrake panel for takeoff, and compare the actual flap/trim indications with the takeoff data.
Check. The lift and stopping configuration agrees with the planned takeoff; MAX is selected and the surface movement has completed rather than merely been requested. [23, PDF pp. 1051-1062] [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064]
5. Ask the aircraft for its configuration check
Action. Obtain the cabin-ready report, press T.O CONFIG and read the complete takeoff memo. Resolve a remaining blue item or configuration warning before lining up for departure.
Check. The aircraft reports the required takeoff configuration and the cabin state agrees with the departure sequence. A silent button press alone is not the check result. [23, PDF pp. 1051-1062] [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064]
6. Complete the runway-entry gate
Action. Complete the Before Takeoff checklist and set the appropriate lights, transponder/TCAS and pack/bleed arrangement. Enter the runway only under the applicable clearance; check the approach path and the runway identification again.
Check. The final configuration matches the performance assumption, and the aircraft enters the runway it was actually cleared to use. [23, PDF pp. 1063-1064]
Complete when: The current calculation, aircraft configuration, initial guidance, cabin state and runway clearance form one consistent takeoff plan.