MTOW
The heaviest an aircraft is certified to be at the start of its takeoff roll.
Also written
maximum takeoff weightmaximum take-off weight
MTOW is a structural and performance limit, and it is the figure the wake-turbulence categories are drawn from — above 136 tonnes an aircraft is a "heavy". The weight actually available on a given day is lower still, limited by runway length, temperature and altitude.
Nearby in Aviation
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- narrowbody — An airliner with a single-aisle cabin, typically three to four metres across.
- NOTAM — A notice telling crews about a temporary hazard or change — a closed runway, unserviceable lighting, an airspace restriction.