Vectored past the localizer

wrote in message . ..
Newps wrote:
Not aggressive at all and a good idea.

NO, it is not a good idea. Read the AIM.

You too. Start with 5-4-3b.1.(b)

He says he was vectored to intercept the localizer. That means new
heading or not, he is to intercept the localizer.

I think you're missing a distinction between the stated reason
for vectors (ie "vectors for the ILS 15 Richmond") and an
ATC instruction to intercept the localizer (ie "fly heading 180,
intercept the localizer")

The situation being discussed here is the former: the pilot
is receiving radar vectors to the FAC, but has not yet been
cleared for the approach nor instructed to intercept the localizer.

So when he observes the needle come alive, what should he do?
The textbook answer is "maintain the heading of his last ATC
instruction and query ATC 'Cessna 12345 through the localizer' "

The common sense/real life answer is "maintain situational
awareness and turn as necessary if the heading will take you
into terrain or obstructions or through the FAC for a parallel
approach. OTHERWISE, maintain the last ATC assigned heading
and query ATC".

The controller is supposed to inform the pilot if will be
vectored through the FAC, but often this doesn't happen --
perhaps the controller believes it will not be necessary
but the necessity develops. However, that doesn't mean
it is "safer" for the pilot to second-guess the controller
and turn to intercept the localizer anyway -- unless he
has been specifically instructed to do so or cleared for
the approach.

I don't see what the problem is.

I hope the problem is clearer now.

If he doesn't intercept, he is not in compliance with
his clearance. Period. That's why he was told the purpose of the
vector.

Um, no. The pilot is told the purpose of the vector ("vectors
for the localizer") because it's a requirement of 7110.65 for
the controller to inform the pilot of the reason for radar
vectors.

Being informed of the purpose of the vector ("vectors for the
localizer") does NOT constitute an ATC clearance to intercept
the localizer ("fly heading 180 intercept the localizer"),
nor should the former be interpreted as the latter.

A pilot who turns to intercept the localizer instead of
flying his assigned ATC heading, simply because he was informed
of the purpose of his vectors, is NOT in compliance with
his clearance. He is violating FAR 91.123, unless a emergency
condition exists. I would consider being vectored into terrain
or towers or towards a parallel FAC in use to constitute an
emergency, JMO.

Hope this helps,
Sydney