Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Confusion; Communication Breakdown
ATC Issue All Types
Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Procedure; Chart Or Publication
Clearances from LAS Departure are getting more confusing. As all the RNAV SIDs have altitude crossing restrictions; pre-departure clearances (PDC's) state 'FL190' and 'comply with all restrictions'. On a previous departure; upon initial contact; Departure Control responded 'Climb to 190' which I understood to mean climb as cleared by our PDC and to comply with all restrictions. The other pilot's interpretation; however; was to just climb to FL190 which deletes all restrictions. When we asked for clarification we were told to comply with all restrictions. On a later departure; however; we received the same clearance but; when we again inquired; we received an 'unrestricted climb' clearance. The phraseology used by LAS Departure Control is very confusing. 'Restricted and unrestricted' sound very much alike. We discussed the situation along with a jumpseater while in cruise and we all had different interpretations.Any other airport uses 'climb and maintain' or 'delete restrictions' or 'comply with restrictions.' Please; clarification on these clearances is needed.
An A319 Captain addressed his confusion with terminology used by LAS Departure with regard to complying with altitude restrictions on the RNAV SID's when flights first check in after takeoff and established on their climb to FL190 per their PDC assigned SID.