What does "clear of the active runway" mean?

"Clear of the active runway" means that the aircraft has exited the runway and is no longer situated where it could affect arriving or departing aircraft. This term is crucial for maintaining safety in airport operations, as it indicates that the runway is free for other aircraft to land or take off. When an aircraft is declared clear of the active runway, it ensures that the area is safe and available for use, allowing efficient airport traffic management.

In contrast, being ready for takeoff refers to a different stage of an aircraft's operation, indicating that it is still on the runway and prepared for departure. Taxiing to the runway means the aircraft is still moving on the ground but has not yet reached a position to take off. Lastly, being in a holding pattern involves flying in a circular path while waiting for clearance to land, which again does not align with the definition of being clear of the active runway.