Definition
A flight mode, switch, or thrust setting that commands maximum rated thrust and the appropriate pitch guidance for either a takeoff or a missed approach (go-around). When activated, the autoflight system transitions from approach guidance to climb guidance, and the autothrottles advance to takeoff or go-around thrust.
Plain English
A button or mode that tells the airplane: "Stop the approach, add full power, and climb." It's used both for taking off and for breaking off a landing.
Context Anchor
You will see TOGA in instrument approach briefings, missed approach procedures, and aircraft manuals for airplanes with advanced flight guidance or power-control systems.
Derivation
The name combines the two situations where it's used: Takeoff and Go-Around. Both require the same thing — full thrust and a climb — so the same control handles both.
Why Pilots Care
Guarantees immediate maximum climb performance if the approach cannot be completed safely.
Intuition Check
TOGA is not a complete missed approach procedure by itself. It starts or helps start the airplane’s takeoff/go-around setup, but the pilot still must verify what the airplane is doing and fly the required path.
Example Sentence 1
If we go missed, I'll press TOGA, pitch for the flight director, flaps to approach, and call positive rate.
Example Sentence 2
Pressing the TOGA button advanced the thrust levers to the takeoff power setting during the rejected landing.