What prestart checks should be performed before starting the APU on the ground?

• A. Area clear of personnel and debris, fuel supply confirmed, oil level checked, intake/exhaust clear, no leaks, doors/panels secure.
• B. Area clear of personnel only and fuel pressure verified.
• C. Cabin temperature set and window weather.
• D. N2 speed set to maximum before start.

Answer: (A)

Prestart checks focus on ensuring a safe, uncontaminated, and ready condition for starting the APU on the ground. The area must be clear of personnel and debris to avoid foreign object damage to the air intake and exhaust and to prevent injuries. Confirming the fuel supply is available prevents a no-start due to lack of fuel. Checking the oil level ensures there is sufficient lubrication and cooling for the unit as it starts. Making sure the intake and exhaust are clear prevents blockages that could cause overheating or ingestion of debris. Verifying there are no fuel or oil leaks helps catch fire hazards before the unit starts. Ensuring doors and panels are secure prevents loose parts from becoming projectiles or blocking airflow during operation. The other options omit one or more of these critical safety and readiness items, or include irrelevant actions such as setting cabin temperature or attempting to spin the N2 to maximum before start, which is unsafe and unnecessary. The comprehensive set of checks is what best ensures a safe, reliable APU start on the ground.