Originally Posted by
chornedsnorkack
A manned aircraft also needs to avoid everything including balloons, gliders, GA etc.
How much of the radars to detect weather and traffic have to be carried and operated aboard every craft, and how far can aircraft rely on having (heavier, better-powered) radars on ground watching for weather and traffic and transmitting information when required?
A manned aircraft has the benefit of 2 pairs of eyes to see ballons etc, although I understand your earlier point of commercial aircraft normally being operated IFR anyway. I think using ground radar isn't an option because of the infrastructure investment that would be required in providing full coverage AND providing relevant info to flight control systems onboard. For me, on board radar is the only option.