CDFA vs constant angle descent
I'm trying to get my head around the difference between the Continuous Descent Final Approach and constant angle descent profile.
According to Doc. 8168 you have two options when reaching the MDA/H either descent below MDA when you have the visual requirements or initiate a missed approach. No level flight to the MAPt is allowed.
The constant angle descent however allows you to descent to the MDA and continue to the MAPt where you have to decide whether to go missed or continue below for landing. Level flight at the MDA is allowed.
Let's say we have a FAF at 6000' and 8 DME at a NPA. The approach is made up of several step down procedures.
The way that I understand it is that the constant angle descent profile starts at the FAF i.e. 6000' and 8 DME (and ONLY there) whereas the CDFA can be initiated further out (for instance at 12000' and 16 DME).
Am I completely off track here?