Definition
An aircraft warning system that sounds an audible alert when the throttles are advanced for takeoff but the aircraft is not properly configured for departure — for example, if the flaps, slats, stabilizer trim, or speed brakes are not set to a safe takeoff position.
Plain English
A safety alarm that warns the pilots if they try to take off while the aircraft is set up wrong. It checks key items like flaps and trim, and sounds a horn if any of them are in the wrong position when the throttles are pushed forward.
Context Anchor
Encountered during cockpit checks, maintenance checks, and troubleshooting of aircraft warning systems.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents takeoff accidents caused by improper configuration, a factor in multiple hull-loss events.
Analogy
It is like a car warning you that a door is open before you drive away, but for critical airplane takeoff settings.
Intuition Check
Do not assume this system warns about every possible takeoff problem. It specifically warns that the aircraft setup or control positions are not safe for takeoff.
Example Sentence 1
During the before-takeoff check, the crew confirmed the flaps were set to 15 degrees so the takeoff warning system would not activate when the throttles were advanced.
Example Sentence 2
During the before-takeoff checklist the crew verified the system was armed so any misconfiguration would trigger an immediate alert.