The nation-wide glider transponder code is great news. I think it will
be very helpful for controllers in allowing them identify and
anticipate behaviors unique to sailplanes such as stopping suddenly to
thermal, then gaining altitude vertically; and following predictable
weekend flight paths such as along the top of mountain ridges.
We are also very lucky to get this particular code. Apparently the
time it takes to transmit low numbers is shorter than that for higher
numbers. The battery drain with the 1201 code should be lower than
with a code closer to 7777.
With respect to AOPA: it’s a great organization (I’ve been a member
for 30 years). But with 400,000 members, don’t expect them to them to
bend over backward for 10,000 glider pilots. Furthermore, on many
issues, our best interests are not the same as theirs. The transponder
exclusion for gliders is a fine example.
Finally, with respect to the location of the SSA office, I recently
chaired a committee tasked with addressing this issue. We considered
the advantages of closer proximity to FAA headquarters in Washington
DC… or the small aircraft directorate in Kansas City which handles
certification issues an ADs relating to sailplanes… or the pilot
certification directorate in Oklahoma City. Many other aspects of
relocating the office were also considered. In the end, we recommended
against a move, at least in the near term. I think our report was
posted on the SSA web site, but I don’t see it there now. If you would
like a copy email me. My address can be found in the SSA member
locator.
Mike Koerner