Definition
The terrifying state of having mere weeks of cash remaining, when every expense is scrutinized and founders start drafting layoff announcements. The financial equivalent of flying on empty while the engine sputters.
Example Usage
We were running on runway fumes when the term sheet arrived—another week and we'd have been planning the shutdown party.
Origin
Aviation metaphor extended from 'runway' (cash remaining) in startup contexts
Fun Fact
Startups on runway fumes often make desperate moves like layoffs, down rounds, or bridge loans that permanently damage the company's long-term prospects.
Source: Startup financial management slang
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “runway fumes” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator