I was 17 miles EAST of the airport, intercepting the localizer. I was at
5000 feet, and just got "cleared for the approach". I was IFR.


Also, if he said cross HAIGS at or above 4,000 feet, is that a clearence
to
descend to 4,000 feet?

Yes.

Can you provide a reference for that fact? So if that is the case, when can
the descent be initiated? Pilots discretion?



"Newps" wrote in message
...

"Chris Brooks" wrote in message
...

We need more information. Exactly where were you and exactly what did the
controller say? If you were VFR and practicing approaches while VFR then
it
doesn't matter what he said because the last thing he'll say is maintain
VFR. When you are VFR it is not necessary for the controller to follow
the
regs as if you were IFR.


When does a published part of the approach begin?

On any thick black line.


At HAIGS?

Sure.

Can you be
considered on a published part of the approach before crossing HAIGS?

While doing the procedure turn.




Also, if he said cross HAIGS at or above 4,000 feet, is that a clearence
to
descend to 4,000 feet?

Yes.



Most of the time when shooting ILS's the controller will step you down
to
the altitude that is on the chart.

Were you IFR at the time? If you were VFR then the controller does not
ever
have to mention an altitude.