Definition
The length of the takeoff run available plus the length of the clearway, if a clearway is provided. Under ICAO definitions, this is the total distance an aircraft may use to lift off and reach the screen height at the end of the takeoff path.
Plain English
The total runway length you can use for takeoff, including any extra clear area beyond the runway end that's been approved for the initial climb.
Context Anchor
Seen in runway data, airport planning, aircraft performance calculations, and ICAO-based aerodrome information.
Derivation
Often abbreviated TODA. The phrase combines 'takeoff run available' (the paved runway you roll on) with 'clearway' (an obstacle-free area beyond it). ICAO uses 'declared distances' to give pilots a precise number for each phase of takeoff rather than one single 'runway length.'
Why Pilots Care
It determines whether the aircraft can meet required climb performance from a given runway, directly affecting go/no-go decisions.
Grounding Statement
Think of it as the officially usable takeoff path length, not just the paved runway length.
Intuition Check
Do not assume “available” means any open space past the runway can be counted. Here, “available” means officially declared usable for takeoff, including only an approved clearway if one is provided.
Example Sentence 1
The crew checked the TODA for runway 27 and confirmed it was sufficient for the planned takeoff weight.
Example Sentence 2
With a short clearway at the end, the takeoff distance available was longer than the runway pavement alone.