Originally Posted by
Pilot DAR
Yes indeed! I don't know if a transponder was required in this airspace/airport, but TCAS equipped aircraft should never assume that in VFR conditions their TCAS is showing all traffic. Even a transponder equipped aircraft could have a failure resulting in no signal out. The availability of technology does not mean that basic skills and responsibilities of see and be seen can be overlooked. 'Sounds like simple use (even just listening!) of a specified frequency would have greatly reduced the risk of a collision.
My transponder only switches to air mode when my ground speed exceeds 40knots (GTX330-ES). Below that, the emissions will be ground, i.e. not be a threat to the TCAS. I can only hope they throw the book at the jet pilot if it is proven that he made no calls and ignored the cals of the C152 pilot. Followed by the bookcase and then, brick by brick, the rest of the library.....