Maximum landing weight

The maximum landing weight (MLW) is the maximum aircraft gross weight due to design or operational limitations at which an aircraft is permitted to land. Although uncommon, it can exceed the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW).

The operation landing weight may be limited to a weight lower than the maximum landing weight by the most restrictive of the following requirements:

• Aircraft performance requirements for a given altitude and temperature:

• landing field length requirements,
• approach and landing climb requirements

• Noise requirements

If the flight has been of short duration (for example an emergency just after takeoff), it may be necessary to dump fuel to reduce the landing weight.

Where aircraft overweight landing is permitted, a structural inspection or evaluation of the touch-down loads before the next aircraft operation will be required in case damage has occurred.

See also

• Aircraft gross weight
• Maximum takeoff weight
• Maximum zero-fuel weight