G'day. Here's a question to clear up some ambiguity between different sources. Tower clears me for a visual approach by day say 15nm out. I have no doubt about my tracking requirement however can I begin my descent already? AIP ENR 2.11.8.4 about the 5nm requirement refers to track/heading only, as opposed to height. AIP ENR 2.11.6 Says Aircraft cleared for a visual approach or instrument approach procedure will not be assigned a level restriction I reckon that I can begin my descent. The Current BT CPL Air Law book seems to say the same thing in text however is accompanied by a diagram that shows I cannot descend until 5nm. Cheers

You are correct you could if you wanted start a descent at 30nm just have to maintain track/heading till 5nm

Cheers Stuart