Okay, I do use it.
If I'm giving climb or descent and I know I should be able to give continuous further climb/descent I say nothing.
If however I know the guy is going to have to level due to crossing traffic, then I usually say "Climb/descend and maintain FLxxx trraffic to cross left/right...." etc. Why? I guess I'm hoping that they might then use an appropriate ROC and not set off TCAS. (I know, it's up to them, I'm not trying to fly the plane)
I have to say also that I use this more with foreign crews where English may be a little poor, I hope it helps with situational awareness.
Similarly I often say "maintain FLxxx on reaching, traffic to cross ......" when the planes are climbing or descending. Obviously I won't say on reaching if they are already there!
I'm all for standard R/T, though I know I'm not perfect, but more importantly I'm for anything that might prevent an incident and if it stops one level bust with implications isn't that a good thing?
BTW, how many times have I heard "C/S reaching FLxxx for further" for me to say "Roger, maintain traffic to cross" and then be told "Yes we've got him on TCAS"
I've no doubt there will now be lots of people tell me why I shouldn't, and I promise to keep an open mind.
Cheers,
N
"Keep smiling, it makes people wonder what you're up to..."