Definition
A takeoff begun from a point partway down the runway where a taxiway joins it, rather than from the full-length departure end. The aircraft uses only the runway distance remaining ahead of that intersection.
Plain English
Starting your takeoff from a side entry to the runway instead of rolling all the way to the very beginning. You give up some of the runway in exchange for a quicker departure.
Context Anchor
Seen in takeoff planning, tower clearances, and wake turbulence avoidance discussions.
Derivation
An 'intersection' is simply where two paths cross. Here it refers to the spot where a taxiway meets the runway, so an intersection takeoff is one that begins from that crossing point.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces available runway length and can place the aircraft closer to preceding traffic wake vortices.
Grounding Statement
Picture turning onto the runway halfway down its length and beginning the takeoff from there.
Intuition Check
Do not read “intersection” as a road crossing. In this context, it means a place where a runway can be entered partway along its length.
Example Sentence 1
Tower offered an intersection takeoff at Bravo, but the pilot requested full length because a heavy jet had just departed ahead of them.
Example Sentence 2
Controllers may offer intersection takeoffs when preceding traffic has already passed the intersection point.