What "Cleared to Land" Means

"Cleared to land" means ATC has confirmed:
  • The runway is clear of obstructions and other traffic
  • You have priority to use it
  • The wind is acceptable
  • You should proceed with your approach and land
You are expected to land on the runway specified. You are not cleared to execute a go-around or miss the approach unless circumstances change (e.g., landing gear warning, severe wind shear, another aircraft on the runway).

Continuing Approach

If the runway is temporarily blocked or another aircraft is slow to vacate, ATC may tell you to "continue approach" even if not yet cleared to land. This means descend and continue toward the runway but be prepared to modify your approach. Do not land until you hear "cleared to land."

Continue Approach Until Landing Clearance

Borton Tower · F-ABCD

ATC F-ABCD, vehicle crossing runway, continue approach.
PILOT: Continuing approach, F-ABCD. [brief pause, vehicle clears runway]
ATC: F-ABCD, runway zero-six cleared to land, wind one-seven-zero degrees five knots.
PILOT: Runway zero-six cleared to land, F-ABCD.
In this case, ATC told the pilot to keep coming down because the runway would be clear by the time the aircraft reached it.