EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
General None Reported / Taken
ATC Equipment / Nav Facility / Buildings; Human Factors
On the arrival into IWA; we were descending towards SHOCK intersection when we were promptly given holding instructions 15 NM prior to the fix to hold as published. We complied and entered the hold. While holding we were told that PHX TRACON had to evacuate due to a fire alarm. PNF updated the passengers and alerted dispatch via an email. Our Expect Further Clearance (EFC) then got extended while holding. We then decided to ask to continue to our destination via VFR. We were currently at 11;000 feet and 200 KTS. We could see IWA airport and proceed visually and safely under the Class Bravo that was closing due to the fire alarm. Center gave us this clearance and then passed us off to IWA Tower as we were about 40 NM to the north. While transitioning to the field; Tower updated us that PHX approach was back on line. So for a brief couple minutes; we were back on an IFR clearance to then join a base for a visual approach and re-contact IWA Tower.I'm not sure how to avoid this situation again. As per our SOP; we can't fly VFR. But common sense was to get help via Center and fly VFR while talking to Tower as we approached. Because as they continued to extend our EFC; it didn't seem right to jump through all the hoops to remain IFR that could have led us to an unneeded diversion; costs; and delay to our passengers.
EMB-145 FO reported the flight crew decided to proceed to an alternate VFR when PHX TRACON shut down because of a fire.