Hi Gonzo,
Yes it was an option, but workload was containable, just made an awful lot higher than normal with multiple changes, and is something that shouldn't be required for 'normal' operations.
DP, done some 'digging' and the ATIS RNAV notification was for the planned A380 departure not for any other ILS problem. This was then programmed, planned, briefed etc. This requires a more planning, checking and briefing than an ILS as the aircraft is descending towards tera firma directly from the FMC, not an ground radio beam(s), and therefore several extra checks and items are required compared to an ILS approach.
The EK departed the stand 43mns late, hence I presume ATC deciding to re-instate ILS approaches, then changed back to RNAV at a late point when it was finally ready to depart.
Emma, exactly what NOTAMS are for
E de B, Please keep your ops on time to minimise the chaos for everyone else (Joke!)
Rgds
30W