Mitty wrote:

I just file for the altitude I want. If I get it, fine. Usually I get
it. If not I will request it from Departure or Center during climb..
Sometimes I get what I want, sometimes we haggle out a compromise.
Almost always it is below the MEA.

I do this typically when headwinds are strong and I always explain the
reason to the controller. Often a Center controller will even allow me
to be non-radar (below his view) and ask me to report position once in a
while.

On 6/23/2006 1:52 AM, Dan wrote the following:

What are the odds of getting the MOCA instead of the MEA going from the
Phoenix area to Santa Fe? Anyone know? I like to be IFR for the
services, but the MEAs are a pain....

--Dan

But, it is not the MOCA the center assigns you. It's the MIA.

Here is what the ATC handbook says about controllers assigning MOCAs
beyond 22 miles of the VOR:

4-5-6. MINIMUM EN ROUTE ALTITUDES
Except as provided in subparas a and b below, assign altitudes at or
above the MEA for the route segment being flown. When a lower MEA for
subsequent segments of the route is applicable, issue the lower MEA only
after the aircraft is over or past the Fix/NAVAID beyond which the lower
MEA applies unless a crossing restriction at or above the higher MEA is
issued.
a. An aircraft may be cleared below the MEA but not below the MOCA for
the route segment being flown if the altitude assigned is at least 300
feet above the floor of controlled airspace and one of the following
conditions are met:
NOTE-
Controllers must be aware that in the event of radio communications
failure, a pilot will climb to the MEA for the route segment being flown.
1. Nonradar procedures are used only within 22 miles of a VOR, VORTAC,
or TACAN.
2. Radar procedures are used only when an operational advantage is
realized and the following actions are taken:
(a) Radar navigational guidance is provided until the aircraft is
within 22 miles of the NAVAID, and
(b) Lost communications instructions are issued.