When using a feeder route to the IAF, to what altitude are you permitted to descend?

When using a feeder route to the IAF, to what altitude are you permitted to descend?

• A. The altitude depicted on the feeder route
• B. The altitude at the IAF
• C. Airport elevation
• D. Sea level

Answer: (A)

Feeder routes provide a defined transition from en route to an instrument approach, with published altitudes along the route to ensure obstacle clearance. When you're using a feeder route to the IAF, you may descend only to the altitude shown on that feeder route. That altitude is the limit for that segment and is what you fly to maintain safe clearance while joining the approach. You wouldn’t descend to the IAF altitude unless you’re specifically cleared to do so or the approach itself has a lower published descent. Airport elevation and sea level aren’t the altitudes used for the feeder transition, and the IAF altitude applies to the point where you’re at the IAF, not the entire feeder segment. So the correct practice is to descend to and remain at the altitude depicted on the feeder route until further clearance or different descent steps are published.

Feeder routes provide a defined transition from en route to an instrument approach, with published altitudes along the route to ensure obstacle clearance. When you're using a feeder route to the IAF, you may descend only to the altitude shown on that feeder route. That altitude is the limit for that segment and is what you fly to maintain safe clearance while joining the approach. You wouldn’t descend to the IAF altitude unless you’re specifically cleared to do so or the approach itself has a lower published descent. Airport elevation and sea level aren’t the altitudes used for the feeder transition, and the IAF altitude applies to the point where you’re at the IAF, not the entire feeder segment. So the correct practice is to descend to and remain at the altitude depicted on the feeder route until further clearance or different descent steps are published.