What phraseology is used to issue the time a pilot can expect to start engines when gate hold procedures are in effect?

• A. Expect engine start (time)
• B. Engine start time
• C. Start engines now
• D. Engine start at

Answer: (A)

During gate hold procedures, ATC uses a message that signals the crew to prepare for engine start at a specified time. The phrase “Expect engine start (time)” communicates that a start time will be provided and that the pilot should be ready to start engines around that time, rather than being told to start immediately. The word “expect” indicates preparation and anticipation, not an immediate command. The placeholder “(time)” is where the exact start time is given, or will be clarified, keeping the timing flexible as the sequencing changes. The other options either state a simple noun without the preparatory nuance, give a direct instruction to start now, or are incomplete in indicating a start time.