What is the phraseology to authorize an IFR flight-planned aircraft to depart VFR?

• A. VFR departure approved. Contact approach on frequency for clearance.
• B. IFR flight plan approved for VFR takeoff; proceed to the assigned departure.
• C. Clear to depart VFR on the next available slot. Contact tower.
• D. Seneca Four Five Hotel, VFR departure authorized. Contact academy departure on one two zero pointe two at Tulsa VORTAC for clearance.

Answer: (D)

When an aircraft has filed an IFR flight plan but intends to depart VFR, ATC uses the exact phrase “VFR departure authorized” to grant permission to take off under VFR and to direct the pilot to the next step for clearance. This wording clearly confirms the departure mode (VFR) and provides a precise action path: identify the aircraft, issue the VFR departure authorization, and tell the pilot which facility and frequency to contact for the subsequent clearance. The correct line includes the call sign, the clear directive, and the specific frequency and facility to contact, which keeps the communication unambiguous and ensures a smooth handoff to the appropriate departure facility for clearance.

Other options miss the standard phrasing or the required direction to contact the proper departure facility for clearance, or they mix concepts (such as implying an IFR clearance with a VFR takeoff) that don’t align with how this transition is handled in practice.