Pre-planned single engine into LHR?
In the sim recently I ended up in a "heated debate" with the trainer because I chose to divert to a rural airport rather than go into LHR with a problem necessitating an engine shutdown at TOD (leaving me single-engine).
I was challenged to justify my refusal to contemplate continuing (i.e. "You show me where it is written down!"), and so today located the source of my reticence:
...5.—(1) Subject to the provisions of paragraphs (2) and (3):
(a) An aircraft other than a helicopter shall not fly over any congested area of a city, town or settlement below:
(i) such height as would enable the aircraft to alight clear of the area and without danger to persons or property on the surface, in the event of failure of a power unit.....
The question is - knowing in advance about the necessity to be single-engined for the descent and approach, is there a LEGAL duty to divert, or is it just me being OTT?
Needless to say I will not be operating any differently in these circumstances as a result of the discussion...