Martin and Jamie dive into one of the most commonly misunderstood ATC phrases, “continue”. Whether you’re training at a busy Class C airport or flying into major commercial hubs like Eidburgh, understanding what ATC really means by “continue” can make all the difference. Join Martin and Jamie, and the team as they share real-world examples and airline insights that help demystify ATC communication for safer, more confident flying.
Common ATC Phrase Confusion
Many student pilots first encounter confusion when ATC says, “continue.” The instruction simply means to continue with your intentions or previously assigned heading or vector. However, it can feel ambiguous, especially on approach, when traffic may still be holding in position on the runway.
Real-World Example: “Continue” in Practice
During flight training, instructors often notice hesitation when students hear “continue.” In reality, it’s ATC’s way of maintaining flow while managing multiple aircraft. As one pilot shared, flying into Edin Burgh involved receiving the command “continue” several times on approach while other aircraft were cleared for takeoff ahead, demonstrating how controllers balance traffic spacing and sequencing.
Key Takeaways for Pilots
- “Continue” means continue your current plan unless given new instructions.
- Expect potential delays in landing clearance, especially at high-traffic airports.
- Stay alert for traffic updates and be prepared to adjust quickly.
- Trust that ATC is managing separation and overall flow.
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