Quote:
Originally Posted by CFIse  Re-posted from the ProPilot forum as it was suggested I'd get a more informed response here.
Thanks
Class B airport - very busy. You've been descended to 2500 feet and cleared to join the localizer (but not cleared for the approach). Approach forgets about you (probably) and the frequency is so busy you can't get a word in. You've reached the FAF. What do you do?
The crux of the question is do you need an approach clearance to leave 2500 feet (I believe you do) and can the tower controller give you such a clearance?
Thanks |
OOOh, that's a good one. It's always tough to recommend the 'best' course of action in this scenario, as there are always so many variables at play. Yes, you would need the clearance to descend. The problem is getting the clearance when the freq is busy non-stop. It's almost like the lesser of two evils. Leave approach freq without approval? Descend without approval (definitely the worst choice). Just keep on flying without descending hoping someone notices.
The first part that should be addressed is the Tower approval to descend. 99% of the time, they will be able to give you that once they coordinate with approach. If you switch to tower and say "Hey, I am inbound from ____ and never got the clearance from approach," Tower should be able to shout to approach "Request control of NWA123" and they just shout back "Approved." This gives the tower controller authority to do all sorts of stuff with you. Nothing creative and funky, but definitely the descent, so don't worry about that. It happens and I usually don't like having someone inside the FAF not talking to me, but if there's nothing going on at the runway, it's not the end of the world for me. Tower controllers know you're coming and might even be calling approach if you get inside the FAF saying "Hey, can I have that guy 4 mile final please." Meaning, give me comms please.....dummy.
I'd personally go to tower, monitor approach, and explain what's going on so they can help the situation instead of watching you pass over the field at 2500'.