Plain English Meaning
The part of the runway where you aim to put the wheels down. It starts at the beginning of the runway and extends for a set distance along it.
Full Definition
The portion of the runway, beginning at the threshold, where the airplane is intended to make first contact with the surface during landing. On most runways this is roughly the first one-third of the runway length, and on instrument runways it is formally marked by the touchdown zone markings.
Context Anchor
Used when planning and flying a short-field approach and landing, especially when runway length is limited.
Why Pilots Care
Hitting the correct touchdown area on short runways leaves enough pavement to safely stop the aircraft before the end of the runway.