On Apr 27, 12:01 pm, "Vaughn Simon"
wrote:
"Larry Dighera" wrote in message

...



If this is implemented, will it affect powered aircraft without
electrical systems too?

Almost certainly



How much does the gliders right-of-way over powered aircraft affect
this issue?

Not at all. Any glider pilots who depends on powered aircraft to see them
and to automatically get out of their way has a death wish.

Right-of-way rules have two uses:
1) Provides a framework of preplanned manuvers for aircraft to use to avoid
each other (but only if they both see each other, know the regulations, and are
inclined to follow them).

And now the big one: (2) It provides lawers and bureaucrats with a
methodology for assigning blame after an accident.



Is ATC going to take legal and financial responsibility for separation
if gliders are mandated to be so equipped and operated?

No more than they do now.



Is the big-sky-theory a myth?

It always has been a myth.


No it is not a myth. If you evenly spread the number of GA aircraft
below 12,000 ft across the U.S all traveling at random directions, the
probability of collision will be extremely low enough to be considered
zero. The problem is that the big sky theory does not apply near
terminal airspace where the airplanes are not traveling in random
directions and altitudes.

The spirit of the original transponder exemption was to allow for
older airplanes that were manufactured before the days electrical
avionics became commonplace. So I can see the justification for this
proposal. However, a full blown mode C transponder may not be
necessary. A radar reflector like they use on weather balloon ought be
sufficient. It is just a piece of foil with a large cross section.