Issuing a landing clearance to an aircraft requesting a full-stop, touch-and-go, stop-and-go, option, or unrestricted low approach on the same runway while another aircraft is holding in position or taxiing to line up and wait until that aircraft starts takeoff roll is allowed.

Prepare for the AC2 Advancement Test with comprehensive materials. Review flashcards and multiple-choice questions with explanations and hints. Start your journey to success today!

The key idea is safe runway separation between arriving and departing traffic on the same runway. If another aircraft is holding short or lining up to wait for the takeoff roll, the runway isn’t fully clear for an incoming landing. Issuing a landing clearance in that situation risks a conflict: the landing aircraft could touch down while the other is starting its takeoff, or there might not be enough room to stop or exit safely. The proper action is to wait until the runway is clear of the departure aircraft (or use another runway if available). This rule applies at all times, regardless of time of day.