Starting the engines on an Airbus A330 involves following standard procedures defined in the aircraft's Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Here's a general overview of the process, but always refer to your airline's procedures during actual operations.

Preparation Before Engine Start

1. Checklists and Clearance:
   
   

   • Ensure the Before Start Checklist is complete.

   • Confirm ground crew is clear and engine start clearance is obtained from Air Traffic Control (ATC).

2. APU (Auxiliary Power Unit):
   
   

   • Start the APU if not already running. The APU provides electrical power and bleed air to start the engines.

   • Verify the APU bleed and APU generator are on.

3. Engine Start Panel Configuration:
   
   

   • Set the Engine Mode Selector to IGN/START.

Engine Start Procedure

1. Verify Bleed Air Pressure:
   
   

   • Confirm there is sufficient bleed air pressure on the ECAM for engine start (provided by the APU or an external air source).

2. Start the Engines Sequentially:
   
   

   • Begin with Engine 2 (right engine) first (as per Airbus SOPs to reduce hydraulic pressure surges).

     • Move the Engine Master Switch for Engine 2 to ON.

   • Monitor the engine start sequence on the ECAM (Electronic Centralized Aircraft Monitor).

3. Monitor the Start Sequence:
   
   

   • Ensure the following parameters during the start:

     • N2 (High-pressure compressor) increases.

     • Ignition is active.

     • Fuel Flow begins after N2 reaches approximately 15-20%.

     • N1 (Low-pressure compressor) starts spinning.

     • Observe EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) for normal rise and no exceedance.

4. Stabilize Engine 2:
   
   

   • Wait for Engine 2 parameters (N1, N2, fuel flow, and EGT) to stabilize.

5. Start Engine 1:
   
   

   • Move the Engine Master Switch for Engine 1 to ON and repeat the monitoring process.

Post-Start Procedures

1. Set Engine Mode Selector to NORM:
   
   

   • Once both engines are running and stable, return the Engine Mode Selector to NORM.

2. Turn Off APU (if not needed):
   
   

   • Shut down the APU after confirming that engines are providing electrical power and bleed air.

3. Perform After Start Checklist:
   
   

   • Verify systems, such as hydraulic pumps, anti-ice, and flight controls.

Notes:

• Always monitor ECAM messages for abnormalities during the start.

• If any abnormal indications occur (e.g., hot start, hung start, or no fuel flow), follow the appropriate QRH procedures.

This process ensures a smooth and safe engine start sequence while adhering to operational standards.