What does it mean when ATC advises you to "resume normal speed" after previously reducing your speed?

When air traffic control (ATC) instructs you to "resume normal speed," it indicates that you may return to your normal cruising speed after having previously been instructed to reduce your speed. However, this instruction does not eliminate your responsibility for adhering to any previously published or assigned speeds that pertain to your arrival or approach procedures.

It is essential to understand that "resume normal speed" allows for increased flexibility regarding your speed, but it does not permit you to ignore published speeds that may affect your approach to your destination. These published speeds are in place to ensure safe separation between aircraft and to maintain orderly traffic flow, particularly in busy airspaces or during specific types of arrivals.

Thus, even after resuming normal speed, you must remain mindful of any speed restrictions associated with your flight, as failing to comply with these can lead to conflicts with other aircraft and potentially hazardous situations. This underscores the importance of understanding and adhering to air traffic directives as well as existing airspace regulations.