Definition
When used as a control instruction by ATC, 'continue' means the pilot is to keep performing the action they were last cleared or instructed to do. It is most commonly used in approach and landing situations — for example, 'continue approach' tells the pilot to keep flying the approach they are already on, with the understanding that landing clearance has not yet been issued and may follow.
Plain English
Keep doing what you were already told to do. The controller hasn't given you a new clearance yet, but they want you to keep going on the current one until they do.
Context Anchor
Heard on the radio during taxi, arrival, approach, and other ATC instructions.
Derivation
“Continue” comes from Latin words meaning “to hold together” or “carry on without a break.” That fits the aviation use: keep the current action going until you receive a new instruction or clearance.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the pilot should maintain the current path or action rather than stop or request a new clearance, keeping traffic flowing safely.
Intuition Check
Do not assume “continue” means “you are cleared for the next major step.” It means “keep doing the stated action,” while waiting for any separate clearance that may still be required.
Example Sentence 1
Tower instructed the pilot, 'Cessna 5BG, continue approach, traffic is a Cherokee on a two-mile final.'
Example Sentence 2
Ground control told us to taxi via Alpha and continue to the ramp.