What is the preferred direction for aircraft parking prior to start-up?

Parking an aircraft nose into the wind is preferred prior to start-up for several reasons. When the nose is pointed into the wind, the aircraft can take advantage of the airflow over the control surfaces, which is beneficial for engine start-up procedures and initial movement after start. This positioning helps maintain better control and stability during the engine start, as it reduces the risk of any crosswind effects that could make it challenging to manage the aircraft while it prepares for taxi.

Additionally, parking nose into the wind facilitates better overall safety and efficiency during ground operations. It ensures that the engine exhaust does not blow directly towards other parked aircraft or ground personnel, minimizing the risk of damage or injury. This configuration also aids in the rotation and takeoff, as the aircraft can more seamlessly transition from a parked status to the runway without unnecessary adjustments.

Other options may offer certain benefits in specific contexts, such as facilitating taxi-out or using wind patterns for engine start considerations, but the fundamental advantage of positioning nose into the wind serves as a critical standard practice in aviation ground handling.