What determines whether a departure clearance is voided?

• A. If takeoff occurs after the void time
• B. If the aircraft passes through a restricted airspace
• C. If takeoff is not made prior to the void time
• D. If the flight plan is changed

Answer: (C)

A departure clearance is valid only up to a specified void time. If the aircraft has not cleared the runway and taken off before that void time, the clearance is void and no longer valid for departure. This rule exists to ensure clear, current authorization and safe sequencing if ground delays occur. Changing the flight plan or passing through restricted airspace does not by itself determine voiding—the determining factor is whether the takeoff occurred prior to the void time. If the aircraft hasn’t departed by then, a new clearance is needed to depart.