Definition
A verbal call used during hand propping to confirm that the airplane's ignition switch (magneto switch) is in the OFF position, so the engine cannot fire when the propeller is moved by hand.
Plain English
It means the ignition is turned off. The person at the controls says it out loud so the person standing at the propeller knows the engine cannot start unexpectedly.
Context Anchor
Used during hand propping, especially in the spoken calls between the person at the controls and the person moving the propeller.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the engine will not start accidentally and protects the person swinging the propeller from injury.
Grounding Statement
SWITCH OFF is a safety call that confirms the ignition switch position before anyone handles the propeller.
Intuition Check
Do not assume SWITCH OFF means the propeller is harmless. It only says the ignition switch is in the OFF position; the propeller is still treated with caution.
Example Sentence 1
Before pulling the propeller through, the pilot at the controls called 'switch off, throttle closed' and the person at the prop repeated it back.
Example Sentence 2
Always verify switch off as part of the pre-start hand signals to prevent an unexpected engine start.