“Clear prop!” is one of the most commonly heard phrases at any general aviation airport. It is generally followed by an aircraft engine bursting to life, spitting fire, and burping smoke. What makes all that possible? Why, the aircraft starter motor, of course.
And what if it doesn’t? Suppose a turn of the key is met with the “wrrr, wrrr, wrrr” you loathe to hear. It can be pretty embarrassing—all of your friends hanging out on the ramp, staring. You know what I am talking about. GA airports are like little ecosystems; everyone has their place, and they all know your business.
