Can you raise an A/C category?
This subject was debated at work and there were enough different interpretations to suggest that it is not a cut and dried issue.
(The reference is in the Australian AIP's but I'm assuming that the ICAO requirement is the same or similar.)
AIP 1.5 para 1.2 states that "an aircraft shall fit in only one category and may not reduce category because of reduced operating weight".
1. Can you legally increase your category?
2. Can a Cat B aircraft fly to the Cat E approach requirements in speed, heights etc?
3. Can a Cat B aircraft use the Cat E circling area for departure planning?
Logic and commonsense says that a lower category aircraft using a higher category circling area is safe (because of the increased obstacle clearance over a larger area) but is it legal?
What's your opinion? Do you know of a reference in the books to back it up?