Let’s clarify a couple of things:
1. An airplane is assigned an approach category based on its Vref at max landing weight. Lack thereof it’s Vso x 1.3
2. If the approach speed is lower due to lower actual landing weight the Category does not change as in “we’re light today so we use the Cat C minima”.
3. If the approach speed is higher for whatever reason ( configuration issues or malfunctions)it is prudent to use the higher Category minima and restrictions.
Which leads to the following:
It is not illegal for a Cat C aircraft to fly a higher speed even though Cat D is Not Authorized.
The approach is not authorized for Cat D (large) aircraft that’s all that means.
Now it would be prudent to take note of the restrictions or limitations on the Approach plate………
If we find ourselves in a situation where we have to fly a higher speed.
This would be a highlight item during a approach briefing in the cockpit.
I’m still curious why they choose to fly the approach that required circling instead of the offset approach to RWY 11.