I have heard rumors for years that the feds were going to eliminate MSAs
because pilots persist in trying to make them part of IFR procedures. Hasn't
happened yet, and the misunderstanding is still around.

Bob Gardner

"O. Sami Saydjari" wrote in message
...
A while back, I was with an experienced pilot, IMC, descending to land
at my home airport. The airport is not in an environment where ATC will
give vectors to final. As we approached, ATC asked which approach we
wanted. He said that he was "going for the visual." The ceilings were
right at the Minimum Safe altitude (MSA)--3000. I think ATC said that we
could descend to 3000 and report airport in sight.

Is this request of "going for the visual" usual?

Is it the norm if ceilings are above MSA?

-Sami
N2057M, Piper Turbo Arrow III