* 150flivver :
An airliner crashed several years ago when the crew mistakenly
descended to the initial approach altitude when cleared for the
approach several miles out. The CVR recorded the conversation between
the two pilots discussing whether or not that meant they could go down
to the IAF altitude (they had been cleared direct to the IAF not via a
feeder fix). The captain won the discussion and the aircraft hit a
ridgeline before the IAF.

Did they sink thru MSA?

Can you remember what airport and approach that was? Would like to look
at the approach plate...

Unless established on a published segment of
the approach, the aircraft is not automatically cleared to descend.

So their approach clearance would have meant to fly to the IAF at level,
then "somehow" descend there, and then follow the approach? Or was ATC's
behaviour just wrong and they should have asked for clarification?


Best regards,
Daniel (not a real pilot, so please bear with me if I'm talking/asking
nonsense)