MidlifeFlyer
Well-Known Member
A standard void time clearance includes a release time. Even if it were a screw-up from the facility speaking with me, my first clue there was something wrong would be not getting a void time at a nontowered airport.I don’t think I’ve ever heard “release for departure” at a non-towered airport except when I’ve been on a hold-for-release
Yes, a clearance is not a release. A clearance is a "what". A release is a "when." You need to be fit into the system given current traffic conditions. We don't get a "release time" at a towered airport because it is unnecessary. We are constantly talking to ATC and IFR release is implicit in our takeoff clearance. If we dint fit in just then, we dint get a takeoff clearance and will receive a "hold for release" advisory that there will be a wait.
At a nontowered airport, our window to fit into the system is specified in the language of the void time clearance. It is essential. There, a "hold for release" or "call us back for release" means they don't have that window for you yet.