Who is responsible for granting takeoff clearance during a flight operation?

The responsibility for granting takeoff clearance is held by the Tower control. The Tower is primarily in charge of managing all aircraft movements in the vicinity of the airport, particularly on the active runways. This includes ensuring that it is safe for an aircraft to take off and that no conflicts exist with other air traffic.

When a pilot is ready for takeoff, they must receive explicit clearance from the Tower, which communicates real-time information regarding runway conditions, potential obstructions, and other aircraft movements in the area. This process is critical for maintaining safety and efficiency in air traffic operations.

While Ground Control may be involved in taxiing and preparing the aircraft for takeoff, and Air Traffic Control (ATC) manages broader traffic patterns and provides separation on a regional level, it is the Tower that holds the specific authority to approve an aircraft's takeoff. Thus, the accurate choice for who grants takeoff clearance is indeed the Tower.