What is takeoff distance?

• A. The distance required to complete an all-engines operative takeoff to the 35-foot height.
• B. The distance to accelerate to V1.
• C. The distance from brake release to liftoff.
• D. The distance needed for engine start.

Answer: (A)

Takeoff distance is the runway length needed for an airplane, with all engines operating, to go from brake release to reaching a height of 35 feet above the runway. This includes the ground roll plus the initial climb up to that 35-foot height, providing a complete measure of how much runway is required to become airborne and clear that standard obstacle.

That’s why it’s not just the distance to liftoff or the distance to a certain speed (like V1), and it isn’t the distance to start the engines. The other options describe different, narrower parts of the takeoff process, whereas takeoff distance encompasses the full maneuver up to the specified height.