On Thu, 15 Jul 2004 19:44:28 -0400, "Bob Chilcoat"
wrote:

I took of from Reading, PA this morning from RW 31 with an on-course heading
of 105. As I was cleared for takeoff, I was told "Cleared for takeoff,
proceed on course". In the past, they've also added "Right turn approved".
This time they didn't. I was concerned that I hadn't been cleared for a
right turn, and a right turn would have gotten me on course sooner. I then
said "Request right turn to on course" but the controller seemed a bit
irritated and just added "On course approved". Did I have permission for a
right turn in the pattern or not?

On course means just that. You had permission to make a turn to
oncourse. Unless previous instructions had been given, I would assume
the shortest turn to 'on course' was expected.