blablabla - good heavens old chap, did you have a bad day or what?...
As indicated, I am seeking general thoughts on this issue - I am in no way suggesting that this is SOP for those people I have hitherto queried on this matter.
I do agree with your comment on the PM(PNF here) not being aware of what you are doing if you depart from the SOPs.
However, much of our flying downunder is to non tower airports, and involves circling approaches/visual circuit join - hence my tailoring the question specifically to VMC/Circling conditions.
In event of a controlled airport/marginal conditions, we must follow the published MAP/ATC instruction. No question.
ITCZ - thanks for the great contribution. I agree with climb on runway track, and complete a gentle vis. circuit, utilizing the GCP. Simple.
My insertion of the 'orbit' - that has been suggested to me(to my horror!) And as suitable at night..........ahem.
Bullethead - thanks for your response, I do agree with 'if you do it the same way every time' sentiment. However, with no disrespect, I left out the heavy iron as I guessed you chaps don't circle too often.
What I am highlighting here, is that in a straw poll of 10-15 crew with many years experience in this class of operation, all have answered that in MAP off ILS/RWY app, or prevailing IMC a standard GA procedure MUST be followed, IAW SOPs. Safe.
Where the pregnant pauses in their responses occur is when the VMC/Visual circ scenario is presented.
The differences of opinion are interesting, and if there is no clear guidance in the company SOPs, then perhaps there ought to be.
So blablabla, here I wholeheartedly agree with you, that departure from SOPs is unnaceptable, however, where no guidance exists, extreme diference of opinion will result.
It can be written into the SOPs, thus..
...... 'when in VMC conditions/Circling equivalent, the PF/PIC may elect to climb to circuit/circling altitude, remain in landing configuration, fly upwind and rejoin the circuit for another approach...'
any further thoughts welcome.
Cheers.
CJ