"Blanche Cohen" wrote in message
...
How is it possible to operate an aircraft without an engine that
is in operation?

Well, for one...operate an aircraft that has no engine at all.

There may be other ways. But I'd think the above would be a sufficient
counter-example for you.

The regulation does NOT say anything about engine operation, nor does the
definition of "operate" per the FAA. It's true that engine start and
aircraft operation are closely related, but the regulation isn't about
engines, it's about aircraft.

Inasmuch as an operation can take place at a different time than engine
start, the former is what the regulation is talking about, not the latter.

Pete