Definition
An ATC phrase used as a prefix to authorize a specific flight operation, such as 'Cleared for Takeoff,' 'Cleared for Approach,' or 'Cleared to Land.' The word 'Cleared' followed by the type of operation grants the pilot permission to conduct that specific maneuver under the conditions stated.
Plain English
When a controller says 'Cleared' followed by an action — like takeoff, approach, or landing — they are giving you permission to do that specific thing. The phrase tells you exactly which operation has been authorized.
Context Anchor
Heard in radio calls during instrument arrivals, when ATC assigns or approves a specific approach to a runway.
Derivation
From the everyday sense of 'cleared' meaning 'free of obstruction' or 'permitted to proceed.' In ATC use, it carries a precise regulatory meaning: official authorization has been given for the named operation.
Why Pilots Care
You must receive a clearance before entering certain airspace or performing critical maneuvers; acting without it violates regulations and creates immediate safety risks.
Intuition Check
Do not read “cleared” as “everything ahead is empty and safe.” In ATC language, “cleared” means “authorized to do this specific thing, subject to the clearance you were given.”
Example Sentence 1
After holding short, the pilot heard 'Cleared for takeoff, Runway 27' and taxied into position.
Example Sentence 2
Approach cleared us to descend to four thousand feet.