Cleared ILS, to descend or not?
 

Our company has just issued an SOP regarding the interception of the ILS in the UK.
In the past, when cleared for the localiser, we would select approach mode on the autopilot. This would intercept the localiser and then subsequently the glideslope.

Now we have been told that, in UK airspace only, this is incorrect as we have only been cleared for the localiser, and cannot descend on the ILS until cleared to do so.

Whilst absolutely correct, is this practically necessary?

Can ATC clear us for the localiser, not the glideslope, then clear us down through the glide from above to recapture from underneath?

To me, the risk of an unstabilised approach is now far greater.

What is the legal position please?

Thanks in anticipation,

Mr SOP

Hi CJ,

Look up the recent discussion in the Rumours and News archive for Sept 13 on this subject, or search my previous postings. I will be happy to clarify the situation if you need more information.