Definition
A standard phraseology prefix used by air traffic controllers to issue an authorization (clearance) to a pilot, permitting the aircraft to proceed under specified traffic conditions within controlled airspace. The phrase introduces the formal clearance and signals to the pilot that what follows is an authorization, not a suggestion or advisory.
Plain English
The opening words a controller uses when officially giving a pilot permission to do something — like take off, land, taxi, or fly a route. When you hear it, what comes next is an instruction you are being authorized to follow.
Context Anchor
Heard in radio communications between pilots and air traffic controllers.
Derivation
From 'Air Traffic Control' (the controlling authority) and 'clears' (gives permission to proceed). The verb 'clear' here means 'to give the go-ahead' — the same sense as a path being clear of obstacles. The phrasing is deliberately formal so pilots immediately recognize an authorization is being issued.
Why Pilots Care
When you hear 'ATC clears,' you must read back the clearance accurately. It is a legal authorization with specific conditions attached (route, altitude, time limits). Misreading or assuming a clearance you did not receive can lead to airspace violations or loss of separation.
Intuition Check
Do not read clears as “removes” or “makes clean.” Here it means “officially authorizes a specific aircraft action.”
Example Sentence 1
The controller began the IFR release with 'ATC clears N12345 to the Bakersville airport via direct, climb and maintain six thousand.'
Example Sentence 2
After the pilot requested a climb, ATC clears the flight to ten thousand feet.