Abandoning a S/E Procedure
When can pilots legally/safely abandon a S/E procedure? I realize that pilots cannot accept vectors from a controller – at least initially – when performing a Special S/E procedure. The question is – when can a pilot accept a vector (and altitude assignment) from a controller? At Oakland California we have a S/E Procedure which involves a left turn back to the VOR, located at the field, to enter a specified holding pattern. The Obstacle which is being avoided is the Bay Bridge about 5 miles beyond the runway, so it is well behind the A/C by the time you are 180º and basically pointing downwind for the runway. Could you then accept a vector for an approach to the departure runway – you would be flying over the Bay and there are no obstacle involved.
I understand that the controller doesn’t have the performance information to vector an A/C over future obstacles – while still not clear of them – but I assume that, once an A/C has reached the Minimum Vectoring Altitude for an area, the S/E procedure could be abandoned. Is there any rules or guidelines for this?
Thanks for any info,
LK