Aircraft transponders in gliders

Following a briefing from Jon Hart, a Leeds NE constituent, Fabian Hamilton is studying the proposal that all aircraft in the UK be fitted with Mode S Transponders. A transponder is an electronic device that communicates automatically with an air traffic control centre, identifying the aircraft and reporting its height. Notwithstanding the costs involved, the proposal is controversial for gliding enthusiasts as their aircraft must be very light and, as they are unpowered, there is no on board electricity supply to connect the transponder to.

A temporary exemption is being proposed for gliders until there is a lightweight portable transponder available but there are other issues of concern for glider owners concerning the power they emit and where the aerials have to be sited.

Fabian Hamilton visited the Yorkshire Gliding Club on Tuesday 2nd September to see Jon Hart about this proposal to force all flying craft to install Mode 'S' Transponders, something which will especially have a detrimental effect on gliding. Fabian was given a short trip in this glider with Richard Cole, the club Chief Instructor. The club is based at Sutton Bank and several constituents are members.

Fabian has promised to take the matter up with Aviation Minister. Jim Fitzpatrick, as well as with the Civil Aviation Authority in London.