Cleared when ready....
 

Hello!
Just a a quick question. When I am cleared to descend when ready to be level at XXX, do most controllers in a radar environment expect me to call leaving my current level?
I've had a look in CAP413 but cannot find anything relevant and whilst flying I seem to get a variety of responses from a bored sounding 'roger' to 'thank you, call XXX on...'
:)
Thanks

You don't have to report leaving the level unless you are specifically asked to report leaving the level, however as a matter of courtesy it might be a good idea to report leaving the level when you commence descent.

CAP 413 Chapter 3 page 3 para 1.2.3.4 says:
"Pilots are expected to comply with ATC instructions as soon as they are issued. However, when a climb/descent is left to the discretion of the pilot, the words ‘when ready’ shall be used; in these circumstances the pilot will report ‘leaving’ his present level."
So the answer is yes, you "will" report leaving.:ok:

Great - thanks a lot! I knew i'd read it somewhere - must look harder next time! Thanks again. :)