Originally Posted by
grrowler
Vilas,
The clearance will normally be given through 5-6000’ - “Descend 2500’, cleared XX Approach”. I have always believed that from this point I could descend in whatever manner I sort fit (within all limits of course) to decelerate and configure, not below 2500 until established.
There is no problem with maintaining a continual descent to 2500 if I choose, but my question is whether I must.
Let's look at it from another angle. When a climb or descent clearance is given you may very ROC or ROD but a clearence to descend or climb doesn't include a level segment. For whatever reason you wish to leave off at another altitude in climb or descent should require ATC approval.