ALTIMATE PILOT

    Maximum take-off weight (MTOW)

    Flight planning

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    MTOW is the maximum permitted aircraft weight at take-off. European documents often use maximum take-off mass (MTOM); the applicable limit is stated in the aircraft’s approved flight manual.

    German term
    Höchstabflugmasse (MTOW / MTOM)
    Abbr.
    MTOW

    Take-off mass includes the aircraft, occupants, baggage and fuel remaining at take-off. Being below MTOW does not establish that the centre of gravity is within limits or that the available runway is sufficient. Temperature, pressure altitude, surface, slope and obstacles may demand a lower actual take-off mass.

    In practice

    Calculate mass, centre of gravity and take-off performance separately using the current aircraft data. A fuel or baggage reduction must also leave sufficient reserves and keep the centre of gravity within the envelope.

    Related terms

    Official sources

    Content reviewed: 2026-11

    For general information only. Always use official sources, your aircraft's flight manual and current national rules for flight decisions.