Using instrument approaches while NVFR

[outlandishoutlanding]

So CAR174B says:

(1) The pilot in command of an aircraft must not fly the aircraft at night under the V.F.R. at a height of less than 1 000 feet above the highest obstacle located within 10 miles of the aircraft in flight if it is not necessary for take-off or landing.


Does that mean that if I am instrument rated, I can't use a RNAV approach to descend while NVFR?

As an example of where this would be useful, see the RNAV 04 approach to YMDG, coming from the south - by CAR 174B, you can't be below 3904 until established on the PAPI at 5nm, at which point you have to dive to reestablish on the PAPI. If you had an instrument rating and could use the RNAV approach, you can have a much gentler descent.

[havick]

The obvious questions bring you back to re-reading the regs as to when can you descend below lsalt when NVFR? That will answer your question

[Squawk7700]

if it is not necessary for take-off or landing.

... As above

[Dangly Bits]

You are either VFR or IFR, not something in between. VFR might very well require you to get within 5 miles of the aerodrome then descend below LSALT, where IFR may allow you to do a GPS/DME arrival or RNAV or what have you.

One or the other. Not both.

[threegreensconfirmed]

You can use the MSAs published on the approach plate to facilitate a descent which will allow you to conduct a more manageable visual approach.

[Username here]

Better question...

If you're instrument rated why are you NVFR?

[outnabout]

Usernamehere - the pilot might be IFR, current and confident, but the aircraft might be restricted to VFR charter (night or day)

[AerocatS2A]

Usernamehere - the pilot might be IFR, current and confident, but the aircraft might be restricted to VFR charter (night or day)

Probably because the aircraft isn't maintained to IFR standard, so why would you want to trust it with an instrument approach?

[Squawk7700]

If you're instrument rated why are you NVFR?

Effort, and cost of airways charges on what might be a dead leg for example. IFR is good when someone else is paying for it.