Remain VFR or request IFR/SVFR?
Good day, aviators.
Situation: I filed a VFR flight plan with the letters V, H, F, and G in the equipment field (VHF, HF, ADF and GPS). Upon approaching controlled aerodrome I encounter weather. ATIS is giving BKN cloud below VFR minima. Aircraft is equipped for IMC flight, but lacks VOR NAV equipment. I used VORs as turning points in the flight plan.
Question nr1: can i request the ATC to transition to IFR?
As per EASA CAT.GEN.MPA180, the helicopter is IMC-equipped, but has no navigational equipment. If i dont mentioned IFR NAV equipment in the field, is the controller legally able to clear me to transition to IFR?
Question nr2: should I request SVFR clearance? As per definition, SVFR weather does not allow to enter aerodrome traffic zone, which is a circle of 2.5nm radius/2000ft centered on the aerodrome (UK CAP definition). If my intention is not to land on that aerodrome but to transit its CTR, will the tower still accept my VFR flight complying I remain VFR at all times while in CTR?
Does ICAO differ from EASA in this regard?
Thank you!