Definition 1 of 2
Definition
The maximum power setting approved by the engine or aircraft manufacturer for use during the takeoff roll and initial climb, applied by advancing the throttle to the position specified in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM). For most piston-engine trainers this means full throttle; for turbocharged, turboprop, and turbine aircraft it is a specific manifold pressure, torque, or engine pressure ratio value, often limited to a set time period.
Plain English
The engine setting used for taking off. It is the strongest power the manufacturer allows for that part of the flight, and the pilot sets it by moving the throttle to the position the handbook specifies.
Context Anchor
You encounter this during the before-takeoff check and at the start of the takeoff roll, when the pilot sets the throttle or power lever for departure.
Why Pilots Care
Using the correct takeoff power ensures the aircraft meets required climb performance while protecting the engine from damage due to overstress or overheating.
Intuition Check
Takeoff power does not mean electrical power. Here, power means engine output—the force the engine is being asked to produce for takeoff.
Example Sentence 1
After lining up on the runway, the pilot smoothly advanced the throttle to takeoff power and checked that the engine instruments were in the green.
Example Sentence 2
At high density altitude the pilot confirmed the correct takeoff power setting from the performance section before releasing the brakes.