Darryl Ramm wrote:
On Apr 5, 8:40 pm, Eric wrote:

In the olden days, we needed contest numbers on the bottom of the wing
so the visual gate system would work. What is the reason for requiring
them now that we don't use a visual gate?

--
Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA (netto to net to email me)

It helps at time to know who you are thermalling/cruising under and be
able call them etc.

Yes, it does, and it would be useful for the guy on top to be able to
call the pilot below him, but he can't see any number. If knowing the
call sign is important, there should be a requirement for a number on
top. Failing that, I suspect it's just habit and inertia that leaves the
lower wing contest number in the rules.

--
Eric Greenwell - Washington State, USA (netto to net to email me)

- "Transponders in Sailplanes - Feb/2010" also ADS-B, PCAS, Flarm http://tinyurl.com/yb3xywl

- "A Guide to Self-launching Sailplane Operation Mar/2004" Much of what you need to know tinyurl.com/yfs7tnz