Dear Bat.man and Beagle,
You both seem to be missing the point Prayboy is trying to make.
I don't think he has any problem understanding that it is recommended to reduce ROC when approaching cleared level to approx. 1000fpm.
His main point was the training captain's insistence on the use of the V/S mode to to achieve it.
The use of the V/S mode in this regime is not treated lightly in many companies and a requirement of a clear announcement and acknowledgement of it's use by both pilots is mandatory.
This insistence of it's mandatory use approaching cleared altitude, at high altitude, is a DANGEROUS PRACTISE.
I particularly notice that this mode is now being used as a comfortable mode automatically by inexperienced pilots.
You will find that most companies' SOP even in RVSM airspace, remind you of the speed protection problems of this mode and hence recommend LVL CHG ( increase speed just prior to level off).
Without further ado and in the light of these extra facts, will you two now apologise to Prayboy
