Hi All,
What an interesting read!!! I love FlightMec's quote - must remember that one!!
Regarding Capt Windsock's remark, your suggestion is quite sensible. I don't think it's likely to happen though. The basic requirment for the classification of Group 3 (the fastest group since Concorde left the skies) is that they can accelerate to, and maintain 250kts. Beyond that, it is the controller's discretion to lift the speed limit and separate the aircraft. The A340 itself is perfectly capable of maintaining 250kts, it just seems to depend upon the crew, their SOPs, the level restrictions and a mild dose of luck as to what actually happens.
As I said previously the Tower controllers are much more aware of the implications for us on radar and they don't try to squeeze to many fast jobbies behind the reverse bird-striker (I love that phrase!!), hence common sense prevails at last!
Good logic though Sir!