GenAv
11th Jun 2001, 09:20
I've been thinking about how CASA could better spend their funding on Civial Aviation in Australia. Discrad the issue of DAP's and their associated ammendment service. I have been flying Instrument approaches without the use of CASA instrument charts for years and have never had any problems. I could name several other operateors who do the same. There is a sure fire way to conduct an approach in cloud and succefully land without jeopardising safety. This can be done in flight so pre flight prepartation is reduced. Firstly, whip out your WAC chart as your approach the CTAF or MBZ or airfeild. Then, look at where you are and where you want to go. Then, look at the surrounding terrain, find the spot height,, confirm with your GPS your exact position and then add 200' to this elevation. I have allowed some 'fat' here becuase it depends on how much your altimeter was out before you departed. NB: remember to get a revised area QNH before you conduct this approach. Then it's a simple procedure of descending at a comfortable RoD whilst monitoring your GPS for distance. Also, remember to look out the fron for approaching terrain and, but mainly look down to make sure you are on slope. Downward visibilty will normally be better than forward vis as forward vis is reduced. This can be used as a substitue for a RADALT. We know it as VISALT. This approach can be used at any airfield where there is a runway, from any direction. Make sure your GPS data card is up to date and that BOTH your VSI and Altimeter are servicable. And there you have it. Money saved on : DAPS EAST/WEST, ERC Charts, Fuel (due holding) TIme and safety is increased becuase of the reduced time in IF conditions.