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6.5 Approach Clearance

6.5.1 General

Approach clearance authorises an aircraft to conduct a published instrument approach procedure.

The Approach Controller shall only issue approach clearance when the aircraft is correctly positioned and separation is assured.

6.5.2 Phraseology

Standard phraseology shall be used:

Cleared ILS approach runway XX.  
Cleared RNAV approach runway XX.

6.5.3 Requirements for Clearance

The Approach Controller shall ensure that:

  • The aircraft is correctly positioned for the approach
  • Separation from other aircraft is assured
  • The aircraft is established, or will be able to establish, on the approach track

Approach clearance shall not be issued if these conditions are not met.

6.5.4 Timing of Clearance

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Issue approach clearance in sufficient time for pilot preparation
  • Normally issue clearance prior to final intercept
  • Avoid late clearance close to or after intercept

Clearance shall be issued early enough to support a stable approach.

6.5.5 Separation Responsibility

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Maintain separation until it is no longer required
  • Ensure spacing is appropriate prior to issuing clearance
  • Continue monitoring the aircraft after clearance

Approach clearance does not remove the controller’s responsibility for separation.

6.5.6 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Issue approach clearance when the aircraft is incorrectly positioned
  • Issue late clearance that may compromise stability
  • Assume the aircraft can establish without verification

6.5.7 Key Principle

Approach clearance shall be issued only when the aircraft is correctly positioned and separation is assured.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Plan ahead
  • Issue clearance early
  • Maintain separation

Approach clearance supports a stable and predictable approach.