Hi all,
As someone just starting my IMC training, I've found it fascinating to follow this thread so far!
Besides the fine points of the law, I guess it also comes down to airmanship and experience.
I think there is a lot of abuse as well. I remember, when still training for my PPL a couple of years ago, seeing a light twin appear out of the murk on short final at Wycombe (which although it has a TWR it has no VOR/ADF or othe facility, and no approved direct IAP).
I asked my instructor how this was possible, thinking at the time there must be some mysterious approach aid (GPS!?!) that I didn't really understand..! He explained that this sort of thing shouldn't be allowed, and that he couldn't understand how, at an ATC controlled airfield, it was possible and not reported!? Maybe it was/is!? Anyway, left me with the impression that people sometimes take intentional risks... not a great idea!?
Andy