Does a tower clearance to land and hold short of another runway have to be accepted?

A pilot in command (PIC) has the authority to make decisions regarding the safety of the flight, including whether to accept a tower clearance to land and hold short of another runway. This authority is exercised under the premise that the PIC is responsible for the safety and operational integrity of the aircraft. If the clearance given by air traffic control does not align with the pilot’s assessment of the situation—whether due to traffic, runway conditions, or other safety concerns—the pilot may choose to not accept the clearance.

This autonomy ensures that operational decisions can be made on the basis of real-time assessments, allowing pilots to prioritize safety over procedural compliance when necessary. The role of the PIC is vital in maintaining safe flight operations, and this includes the discretion to decline a clearance if they feel it poses a risk.