Originally Posted by IO540
If everybody had a transponder, or an ADS-B transmitter, there would be an excellent technological solution, but this is some way away, especially with gliders.
Technology is here and now, I've flown couple of SEP aircraft that have round transponders that would easily fit in ANY glider aircraft. What I think is the problem with gliding, the people rather spend thousands of euros on brand new GPS than buying the most simple C-mode transponder, because if they have flown 50 years without it, they can do it for the next 50 years as well.
I think they really don't have the mentality of someone with CPL or IR, who has respect for air safety and air traffic separation. Especially when you hear bragging about near collision when they were 500m away from airliner on same level.
Not to mention that some of them think it isn't neccessary to advise your intention when joining traffic pattern on uncontrolled airport - sure the glider has priority, I don't mind turning away or extending the downwind, but I have to know that glider is there - I really don't like when a glider passes me from right to left 100m before me and 50 ft above. So much about safety...