"Mike Schumann" wrote in message
.. .
Why doesn't the SSA get together with AOPA and the FAA and get this
implimented nation wide. This would be a benefit everywhere.

Mike Schumann


Mike,

No offense, but that's really a silly question! (grin) The reason we do not
have a single discrete, nation wide transponder code is 'cause that would
make too much sense. This is the sort of thing that gets way-laid in
bureaucratic red tape forever.

Oh, and they will also probably answer that there are not enough transponder
codes available as it is, so they can ill afford to assign gliders one (as
is done at Reno ATC).

I attended the NTSB's Minden meeting after the jet vs. glider mid air. I
asked about a single code for gliders and was told it was apparently
requested years ago by the SSA. They have also requested an exemption from
the "always on" transponder rule for gliders - - no movement on either,
that I've heard.

I also suggested streamlining the xponder installation and extra battery
installation approval requirements for gliders (as they did for shoulder
harnesses for classic aircraft over a decade ago).

all the best,

bumper