"Terence Wilson" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 16 Feb 2008 19:01:14 -0800, Sam Spade
wrote:

Terence Wilson wrote:
When flying a VOR approach in which the FAF is defined by the VOR, is
it appropriate to start the descent to the MAP, or next stepdown,
immediately after overflying the VOR or should I wait until I have
positive course guidance for the final approach segment?

I ask because it can sometimes take 1-2nm for the CDI to move, which
may require a rushed descent to the MAP on some approaches.

Are you a simulator only pilot?

I ask, because that is a question that would be answered during
instrument training.

Sam, I think you asked me that question before and I answered .

I'm a RW instrument student.


The step down altitudes are shown on the IAP. You should try to get down to
that altitude as soon as practical so that you can stop the altitude descent
and start concentrating on looking for the airport. You do realize that
except for this case (VOR at FAF) in the last few seconds as you cross over
the VOR, if you get a full deflected CDI, it's time for missed approach.
Just a final thought. There is no legal requirement to descend at all.
You could stay at the initial altitude until you reach the MAP and then
circle down. You might no see the airport though. The only reason I would
think you might keep this in mind is if you had an emergency situation and
wanted to hold on to altitude as long as possible (very rough engine). You
would just give up altitude as you felt safe.
BobF.