What you should know about "Climb Via"
On April 3, 2014, the FAA changed ATC phraseology and procedures associated with Standard Instrument Departure (SID) clearances. The new key phrase is “climb via,” which is closely related to the long-standing “descend via” phraseology used in Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR) clearances. Misunderstanding of the new “climb via” SID phraseology caused the filing of numerous pilot deviation reports. Some of these deviations resulted in less than standard aircraft separation. It is the pilot-in-command’s (PIC) responsibility to ensure compliance with an ATC clearance. For “climb via” clearances, remember the following: Top Altitude: Prior to takeoff, pilots must identify the