Definition
The length of the takeoff run available plus the length of any clearway provided beyond the end of the runway. It is the total distance an airplane may use to complete the takeoff and reach a specified screen height.
Plain English
The total distance an airplane has to get airborne — the runway you can roll on, plus any clear, obstacle-free space beyond the end of it that you're allowed to use during the climb.
Context Anchor
Seen in runway declared distances and takeoff performance planning, especially when checking whether a runway is long enough for the airplane under current conditions.
Derivation
The name describes itself once you separate the parts: 'takeoff distance' is the total ground roll plus initial climb to a screen height, and 'available' means how much of that distance the airport actually provides for use. The word 'available' is the key — it's about what the airport gives you, not what the airplane needs.
Why Pilots Care
It tells the pilot whether the airplane can safely take off at its current weight and conditions.
Intuition Check
TODA does not always mean only the paved runway length. It means the distance officially declared available for takeoff, which may include an approved clear area beyond the runway.
Example Sentence 1
After checking the airport data, the captain confirmed the TODA was sufficient for a full-weight takeoff.
Example Sentence 2
Runway 27 has a TODA of 6500 feet including the clearway.