What is the standard phraseology to authorize an aircraft to take off?

• A. RUNWAY (number), CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF
• B. RUNWAY (number), CLEAR FOR TAKEOFF
• C. RUNWAY (number), APPROVED FOR TAKEOFF
• D. RUNWAY (number), TAKEOFF AUTHORIZED

Answer: (A)

In ATC communications, authorization to take off is given with a clear, standard phraseology: the runway followed by “cleared for takeoff.” The word “cleared” signals that ATC has granted the specific clearance to begin the takeoff, and “for takeoff” specifies the action being approved. This exact phrasing removes ambiguity and tells the pilot precisely when they may initiate takeoff once they have the clearance.

Other forms aren’t used in standard radiotelephony: “clear for takeoff” uses the wrong verb form for an official clearance, while “approved for takeoff” and “takeoff authorized” are nonstandard and could lead to confusion about whether a formal clearance has been granted.