Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)
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Definition
The maximum certified weight at which an aircraft may attempt takeoff.
What Is Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)?
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) is the maximum gross weight at which the aircraft's type certificate permits a takeoff attempt. It is a structural and aerodynamic limit set during aircraft design and certification, representing the heaviest condition the airframe, landing gear, and flight controls are certified to handle during the critical takeoff phase. MTOW encompasses the operating empty weight (OEW), usable fuel, payload (passengers, baggage, and cargo), and any non-revenue items on board.
How It Is Measured
MTOW is established through structural analysis and flight testing during the aircraft certification process under FAA FAR Part 25 or EASA CS-25 regulations. Structural components — wings, fuselage, landing gear — are designed and tested to withstand loads generated at MTOW under maximum load factors (typically +2.5g to -1.0g for transport category aircraft). Operators may not dispatch an aircraft above MTOW under any circumstances. Actual field performance limits (runway length, obstacle clearance, climb gradient, tire speed rating) often impose a lower effective takeoff weight limit than the certified MTOW, referred to as the regulated takeoff weight (RTOW).
Typical Values by Aircraft
| Aircraft | MTOW (tonnes) | OEW (tonnes) | Max Payload (tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-800 | 79.0 | 41.4 | 20.9 |
| Airbus A320neo | 79.0 | 44.3 | 20.0 |
| Boeing 787-9 | 254.0 | 128.9 | 53.1 |
| Airbus A350-900 | 280.0 | 142.4 | 53.0 |
| Airbus A380-800 | 575.0 | 277.0 | 84.0 |
| Boeing 747-8F | 447.7 | 192.8 | 134.2 |
The Antonov An-225 Mriya held the record at 640 tonnes MTOW. Among production aircraft, the Boeing 747-8 freighter variant achieves a payload-to-MTOW ratio optimized for cargo operations.
Why It Matters
MTOW is the single most consequential number in commercial aviation economics. It drives airport charges (many airports levy fees based on MTOW), determines runway and taxiway pavement requirements, sets maximum fuel uplift, and governs how much payload can be carried on any given flight. Higher MTOW variants of aircraft — such as the Boeing 737-900ER vs. 737-800 — enable longer range and higher payload at the cost of greater structural weight. Airlines must constantly balance MTOW, zero-fuel weight, and fuel load to maximize revenue payload within certification limits.