Include gliders in the SSR transponder carriage regulations.
Gliders are currently exempt from transponder carriage which is otherwise mandatory throughout the UK above FL100. It is very difficult to fit a transponder in most gliders because of space and with no power they have to rely on batteries. Mode S transponders draw significant power so it is not possible to rely on batteries except for short periods making serious cross country wave flying impossible. The CAA suggests that special areas may be made available for gliders but that has not gone down well with the BGA. Overall this is a significant problem for them and they need our support.
Issues raised by the BGA include:
There has never been a collision between a glider and CAT so the safety record is 100% and cannot be improved by this measure.
Gliders have been cleared into CAS for many years without great difficulty and with no safety issues arising.
TRAs above FL100 for gliders will restrict operations substantially and there is no actual commitment in the consultation even for them.
The proposal is said to deliver ATC efficiencies. However, the CAA has also said that this will not facilitate increased CAT traffic in Class G airspace so it is unclear why this is relevant.
If you would like to look at this in more detail, please go to the BGA Website
Option 1 - Option 2 - Option 3 - Option 4