The
maximum takeoff weight (
MTOW) or
maximum gross takeoff weight (
MGTOW) or
maximum takeoff mass (
MTOM) of an
aircraft is the maximum weight at which the
pilot is allowed to attempt to take off, due to structural or other limits. The analogous term for rockets is
gross lift-off mass, or
GLOW. MTOW is usually specified in units of kilograms or pounds.