Descend your discretion clearances

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Edelweiss air
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Descend your discretion clearances

Post by Edelweiss air »

When given a descend your discretion clearance I've noticed pretty much no one calls atc with a vacating altitude call when initiating the descent. What's the actual expectation from atc ? All my flying is done in radar controlled airspace, 250 and below.

Appreciate the insight.
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Go Guns
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Re: Descend your discretion clearances

Post by Go Guns »

From the AIM, RAC 8.4.1(b)

If the phrase “when ready” is used in conjunction with
an altitude clearance or instruction, the change of
altitude may be initiated whenever the pilot wishes.
The climb or descent should be made at an optimum
rate consistent with the operating characteristics of the
aircraft. Pilots are expected to advise ATC when the
altitude change is initiated. Compliance with assigned
or published altitude crossing restrictions and speeds is
mandatory (CAR 602.31—Compliance with Air Traffic
Control Instructions and Clearances), unless specifically
cancelled by ATC. (MEAs are not considered restrictions;
however, pilots are expected to remain at or above MEAs.)
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nightbird
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Re: Descend your discretion clearances

Post by nightbird »

We had a memo posted recently saying we only need to call vacating the altitude in non radar environment.
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