Originally Posted by
aterpster
All the other nuances aside I can't imagine departing the MHA of a holding pattern for a lower inbound altitude anywhere in the world.
As said these MHAs are for traffic only- and this is how they do things in China. Most of the IAFs around ZSAM has the 5910 restriction as the guys going direct are cleared to commence at 4940 feet.
Know the environment before commenting. The OP was asking for advice. By the way if you "stuck to you your guns" regarding that MHA and messed up the approach on a PC you would fail(shanghai case)
How they do things stateside doesnt count. I wouldnt comment on a SFO approach when ive never been there.
BTW: Matt should have posted this to the fragrant harbour forum- as at least the dragon and cathay guys could give some input as they fly to both destinations.
cheers