On Thu, 31 Aug 2006 16:47:21 +0200, Stefan wrote:

Mode S is being deployed because the current SSR systems have reached the
limit of their operational capability. This takes the form of exceeded
maximum number of targets, RF pollution, lost targets, identity errors and
Mode A code shortage. Mode S is therefore a necessary SSR replacement in
airspace subject to high levels of traffic density.

I've some difficulty understanding this.

From reading here, I've been lead to believe that aviation is more common
in the US than in the EU. Given this, I have to assume that a locality
like the KEWR/KLGA/KJJK area would have a higher aircraft density than
anywhere in Europe.

No?

If so, then how can a locality like that not be suffering from the same
problem as that described in the cited text? I fly in this area, and I've
never noted identity errors nor have I ever been denied service due to an
insufficiency of mode A codes.

- Andrew