Jumbo Driver's comments on ambiguity are well worth further thought.
As it can be argued that when 'off-STAR' lateral and vertical constraints do not apply unless reiterated, some clarification - either local or national - is required.
(Note: there was a section in the AIP that described speed limitations and specifically referred to actually flying a STAR, SID or under ATC limitation, reinforcing that argument.)
More ambiguity comes when a speed-related query is answered by "standard speeds". Is that to be standard speeds as if you were flying the STAR or standard speed limits for the type of airspace? In Class A, eg London or Manchester, no limit below FL100.
Perhaps a note on the STAR plates that says "250 kts abeam SLPs when receiving vectors unless instructed otherwise", or words to that effect, where that is clearly the intention/understanding.
Edit: Realised this is straying somewhat from the original thread... worthy of a new one to discuss this topic?
Last edited by King Muppet; 22nd Mar 2006 at 11:15.