Definition
The location on the runway where the aircraft becomes airborne during the takeoff roll. It is the point at which the wings produce enough lift to support the aircraft's weight and the wheels leave the surface.
Plain English
The spot on the runway where the airplane actually leaves the ground.
Context Anchor
Seen in IFR departure and climb planning, especially when considering runway length, obstacles, and the climb needed after takeoff.
Derivation
“Lift” refers to the upward force that lets an aircraft fly, and “off” means away from contact. Together, “lift off” describes the moment the aircraft rises away from the runway.
Why Pilots Care
It determines whether available runway length is sufficient and directly affects required climb gradients for obstacle clearance on instrument departures.
Intuition Check
Do not read “point” here as a charted navigation point. The lift off point is a physical spot on the runway where the airplane becomes airborne.
Example Sentence 1
On a hot, high-altitude departure, the lift off point will be further down the runway than on a cool day at sea level.
Example Sentence 2
In the IFR departure briefing the pilot noted the lift off point to verify the airplane would meet the required obstacle clearance.