What does landing clearance authorize?

Landing clearance specifically authorizes the pilot to land the aircraft on a designated runway. It is a critical communication from air traffic control, signifying that the runway is clear and safe for the aircraft to make the approach and land.

Receiving landing clearance indicates that the air traffic controller has ensured that there are no other aircraft or obstacles on the runway and that the conditions are suitable for landing. This is a fundamental aspect of air traffic management and safety, as it directly affects the aircraft's final approach and landing phase.

In contrast, the other options involve actions that either do not pertain to landing or take place during different phases of flight. For instance, departure from the airport refers to an aircraft's takeoff phase, which occurs prior to a landing. Taxiing on the runway, while related to airport operations, does not occur during landing but rather as part of moving the aircraft to and from the runway. Similarly, takeoff of the aircraft is a distinct phase that is separate from landing clearance. Thus, landing clearance is solely concentrated on permitting the approach and landing of an aircraft.