Jeppesen ATC Section on Air Traffic Control US-382: Section 4 Arrival Procedures Ref 5-4-18f states:-
blah blah blah..."Pilots should remain at or above the circling altitude until the aircraft is continuously in a position from which a decent to landing on the intended runway can be made at a normal rate of decent using normal procedures.......
Basic rules apply.
1) maneuver the shortest path to the base or downwind leg as apprpriate considering existing weather conditions
2) keep the runway in sight etc
So your correct if you descend from MCA level off and then continue dscent to the landing the Feds will bust you, just as they would if you stray outside the protected area. Obviously, you are flying at an altitude that doesnt make the necessary obstacle clearance.
5-4-18 also prescribes Circling Approach Radii.
App Cat Radius
A 1.3 miles
B 1.5 miles
c 1.7 miles
D 2.3 miles
E 4.5 miles
all measured from the end of all runways (if you see what I mean)
[This message has been edited by Gspot (edited 26 June 2001).]
[This message has been edited by Gspot (edited 26 June 2001).]