Definition
The Start End of Runway is the point at the beginning of the usable runway surface where the takeoff roll is initiated. In TERPS departure procedure design, the SER is one of the reference points used to establish the location of the Departure End of Runway (DER) and to evaluate obstacle clearance for the climb-out path.
Plain English
The spot at the very beginning of the runway, where you start your takeoff roll. It is used as a reference point when designers build a departure procedure.
Context Anchor
Seen on FAA departure procedure design diagrams, especially where runway reference points are shown for obstacle-clearance planning.
Why Pilots Care
Determines the starting location for safe climb gradients and obstacle clearance on instrument departures.
Grounding Statement
Picture the airplane lined up for takeoff: the SER is the runway end behind the airplane at the start of the takeoff roll.
Intuition Check
Do not read “Start End of Runway” as the end where the airplane leaves the runway. SER is the starting end; the opposite end is the end the airplane rolls toward.
Example Sentence 1
The departure procedure's climb gradient is measured from the SER to ensure obstacle clearance along the initial climb.
Example Sentence 2
Aircraft performance must be calculated from the SER when flying the published TERPS departure.