"Jim Macklin" wrote in message
news:Js0Pf.115984$QW2.26774@dukeread08...

Actually it does, you call clearance/ground control and ask
for "IFR to "nearby place" and they come back with "ATC
clears Nxxxx to nearby place via ______ ________ maintain
4,000, squawk 2456."


Actually, since Tower Enroute Control by definition is within approach
control airspace and that "nearby place" need not be within approach control
airspace, it doesn't.

By the way, "ATC clears" is used when a clearance is relayed to an aircraft
through a non-ATC facility. Control towers are ATC facilities.