411A.
I could not disagree with you more strongly. One sure fire method of upsetting a assymmetric non-precision approach is to use the "step down method". With every thrust change as the a/c levels off there has to be a corresponding input of rudder and then another pitch down to the next step = more power changes and rudder inputs and so it goes on. I have never seen an unstable approach flying a constant rate descent. Auto-pilot in or out!
JAR OPS requires this method to be taught in recurrent sim sessions, and if performed correctly, it is in my opinion by far the safest and most efficient way to fly a non-precision approach.
Irrespective of whether it has a 3 degree or 4 degree profile, VOR/DME, NDB/DME, constant rate works every time. Interestingly enough, if you take away the DME forcing the lads to use the tear drop procedure from overhead the navaid, they don't need to use step down at all. If it works here it should work on a straight in approach, and it does!
The trouble in many airlines is that pilots have not recieved thorough non-precision approach training, and as a result don't have a good understanding of flying the procedures correctly.
As you said, "TRAINING IS THE KEY".
[ 29 November 2001: Message edited by: shakespeare ]