Does that refer only to axis?

I think it refers to switches as well, since if you have the Warthog it has toggle switches which can be in a fixed position. Other things like the master mode switches or airbrake switches, if not placed in the neutral or takeoff positions before entering the cockpit, could be out of sync.
Axes usually just require you move the controls through their ranges of motion before takeoff (which real pilots do anyway!) to make sure they are properly centered and moving as normal.



The Jedi Master

Okay, thanks. I just need to remember to make it a ritual to move the axes through their range of motion. I don't remember it happening in BS 1, but now my Ka-50 will sometimes start up with the cyclic in a slightly raised position . . . oops!