SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-hold-for-release

ATC says 'hold for release.' What does that mean?

You may not depart on that IFR clearance until released.

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  1. You may depart immediately if the weather is good
  2. You may not depart on that IFR clearance until released ✔
  3. You must hold in the air at the departure airport

Why: The AIM says hold for release means you may not depart using that IFR clearance until a release time or more instructions come from ATC. You may still depart VFR, but should cancel IFR first.

Huh, didn't know that: ATC uses release times to separate departures or manage traffic.

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References

Answer: You may not depart on that IFR clearance until released. The AIM says hold for release means you may not depart using that IFR clearance until a release time or more instructions come from ATC. You may still depart VFR, but should cancel IFR first.

  1. AIM 5-2 Departure Procedures www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_2.html
    the pilot may not depart utilizing that IFR clearance until a release time or additional instructions are issued by ATC
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Test yourself in the game

FlyingCan you fly an Obstacle Departure Procedure without an ATC clearance?FlyingATC says 'cleared to the airport as filed.' What does that not include?FlyingYour IFR clearance has a void time and you miss it. What does that do?

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