Howdy ho all,
Appologies firstly if I came across as being rude to the turbo-prop, not intended, just that a number of occaisions we are slowed down to the speed of, say, a Dash8-300, when if we maintained speed, it appeared we would have been able to fit in ahead, and not delayed the Dash.
A couple of examples...
Returning from over the North Sea via SAB, or even GOMOT, Scottish give a direct centre-fix for 24. Now, sometimes we ask, sometimes its just offered, but on either occaision one would only assume the clearance could be offered if first discussed with Radar that this would fit in with their sequence. If not, then let us go high speed to say TARTN, then slow down and enter a sensible sequence at the correct approach speed.
One the main points coming out of this is we're trying to maintain a constant descent profile, with minimum thrust, so if from SAB we get direct to an 8 mile final, it's spoilers open and dive for the hard-deck. If then we're told actually, you're going to be vectored back in a southwesterly direction to fit in behind aircraft coming from the south, then it's thrust back on and the whole arrival feels messy.
Secondly, arriving from the South, on the TWEED1A, there are many times when arriving on the Scottish frequency, we're told we have to slow to 270kts, then 250kts, which is quite a way before reaching the SLP just after ESKDO. Why if we're behind with other high speed aircraft, do we have to slow down?Somewhere like Manchester has given points to slow down, ie 12D before ROSUN, or as you get there if on vectors, and it works. Only if it's a very busy morning will they suggest you slow down early to avoid flying around in the hold. Why is EDI different?
Obviously you guys in ATC aren't out to slow us intentionally, and there is certainly no pressure from the Company to fly 250kts to 4miles, that would be daft!
AlanM - Yes, indeed a visit to the new tower is required, and also a trip to Scottish Control, which is at Prestiwck isn't it?
Edinburgh just feels a little odd, but maybe it's just us.
Cheers,
HS