Originally Posted by
e6bpilot
I J/S on a Delta 737 and they used approach mode when on a vector for a real (not visual) ILS. Nobody died. Although I didn't query the crew, I assumed this (along with setting the MAA) was their procedure.
We armed approach when cleared for the approach in the -300 and -400 at USAir back in the 90s and it worked just fine.
I suspect that some things are just Southwestisms... tribal techcedure that eventually finds its way into a manual. Once it's in there it takes a commandment from Herb from beyond the grave to change it.