"Steven P. McNicoll" wrote in message
nk.net...


An alternative clearance is issued when necessary to ensure separation
from other traffic or airspace. For example, if the controller had
traffic at nine thousand a proper clearance would be; "Climb to and report
reaching VFR-on-top, no tops reports. If not on top at eight thousand
maintain eight thousand and advise." Remember, you're just another IFR
aircraft until you report reaching and are cleared to maintain VFR-on-top.


It seems to be to everyone's advantage for the pilot to report being OTP as
soon as he is and can remain that way, even if that is on the runway, as
newps described, or on initial contact with Departure. That minimizes the
time and space during which I must be provided separation, as long as I am
willing to forego that.