Clearances

Question 1

As detailed in MATS Part 1, define the term Clearance Limit and how it can be specified.

Answer 1

A clearance limit is the point to which an aircraft is granted an ATC clearance and shall be specified by naming:

a) An aerodrome
b) A reporting point, or
c) A controlled or advisory airspace boundary

Question 2

As detailed in MATS Part 1, when shall an aircraft be cleared for its entire route to the aerodrome of first intended landing, and what is the clearance limit when this is not possible?

Answer 2

When:

a) It has planned to remain in controlled or advisory airspace throughout the flight and
b) There is reasonable assurance that prior coordination will be effected ahead of the passage of the aircraft

The clearance limit for all other flights shall be the boundary of controlled or advisory airspace.

If the clearance for the levels covers only part of the route, it is important to specify that part to enable the pilot to comply with radio failure procedures.

The CAA may issue special instructions concerning the clearance of inbound aircraft to certain aerodromes.