Minimum rate of descend

[pilotnik]

I am trying to find out more about the required minimum rate of descend. I found a reference in the UK AIP ENR 1.1 -> 3.2.2.3 which states the minimum as 500ft/min below which a pilot has to inform ATC. I looked up few other AIPs and found nothing alike yet every once in a while I hear from pilots about this rule. Is there any ICAO document (or else?) that might be a base to such minimum?

PS. I found this thread but it doesn't answer the question: http://www.pprune.org/archive/index.php/t-304997.html

Thanks

[BOAC]

Cannot help you with ICAO but the UK AIP says:

3.2.2.4 Minimum Rates of Climb and Descent
3.2.2.4.1 In order to ensure that controllers can accurately predict flight profiles to maintain standard vertical separation between aircraft,
pilots of aircraft commencing a climb or descent in accordance with an ATC Clearance should inform the controller if they
anticipate that their rate of climb or descent during the level change will be less than 500 ft per minute, or if at any time during
such a climb or descent their vertical speed is, in fact, less than 500 ft per minute.
3.2.2.4.2 This requirement applies to both the en-route phase of flight and to terminal holding above Transition Altitude.
Note: This is not a prohibition on the use of rates of climb or descent of less than 500 ft per minute where necessary to comply
with other operating requirements.