What must be ensured regarding the runway to be used before an aircraft starts takeoff?

Before an aircraft begins its takeoff roll, it is crucial that the runway is clear of all ground vehicles, equipment, and personnel. This condition is vital for ensuring the safety of the takeoff process, as any obstructions could lead to hazardous situations, including collisions or accidents. A clear runway allows the pilot to have a safe and unobstructed acceleration and ensures that there are no elements that might impede the aircraft's performance during this critical phase of flight.

For optimal safety, air traffic control plays a significant role in managing runway activities and ensuring that it is free from any hazards before granting takeoff clearance. While inspections, markings, and reporting to ATC are important components of airport operations, the immediate priority before an aircraft's takeoff is to ensure that the runway is completely unobstructed to facilitate a safe launch.