IO540 you make some valid points, and I agree that we are, to a certain extent, trying to find the "least worst" method of joining the circuit.
However, in response to some of your points -
The straight-in approach, by definition, works only from one direction - the SOJ works from all directions.
If several aircraft arrive together, it is surely better for them to space themselves while either orbiting at 2000' or while descending deadside than to all try to barge in together? Also, if there are few gaps, how and where do they hold pending a gap, if they all arrive at circuit height?
It is not just the arriving pilot's convenience that needs to be considered. It is arguably more important to consider the matter from those who are already established in the circuit.
With the OHJ, arriving aircraft are filtered in from the crosswind leg so there is one principal area for the circuit flyer to watch for arriving traffic.
You mention a tightly packed circuit; if you are circling at 2000' waiting for a gap to join, that surely has to be better than being at the same level as and increasing the density of traffic at circuit height.
Your TCAS point is largely irrelevant for the type of GA operation we are are considering.
The SOJ is not used "to make life hard". If properly understood and carried out, it is no more difficult or risky than any other method and it has the major advantage that joiners arrive in an orderly manner. It also caters for both radio and non-radio arrivals and provides the ability to inspect the signals square from overhead and to orientate the pilot who may be at an unfamiliar airfield.
I realise there are two distinct views on the Standard Overhead Join procedure. I believe it needs to be in every pilot's repertoire for use at the appropriate time. Regrettably, that seems not to be the case - so it should have more emphasis in both initial and recurrent training. It is a Standard procedure which, if all were properly conversant with it, would serve to enhance safety on the many occasions when undisciplined arrivals just "happen".
JD
