Definition
The maximum weight authorized for ground maneuvering, including the weight of fuel that will be burned during taxi and engine run-up before takeoff. It is slightly higher than the maximum takeoff weight because it accounts for the fuel consumed between leaving the gate and reaching the runway.
Plain English
The heaviest the aircraft is allowed to be while moving on the ground. It is a little more than the takeoff limit because some fuel will be burned off before the aircraft actually lifts off.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft limitations, weight-and-balance data, loading records, and dispatch or preflight planning before the aircraft leaves the ramp.
Why Pilots Care
Keeps landing gear and airframe loads within design limits during ground movement.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as the weight allowed for takeoff. Maximum taxi weight applies while the aircraft is on the ground before takeoff, and it can be slightly higher than the takeoff limit because fuel will be burned before liftoff.
Example Sentence 1
The dispatcher loaded the aircraft to just under the maximum taxi weight, knowing the engines would burn off enough fuel during taxi to be legal for takeoff.
Example Sentence 2
Full fuel plus passengers still left the airplane 200 pounds below its maximum taxi weight.