TCAS

[Guest 112233]

Obviously my flying experience is very limited, but here's one for the experts - I know how TCAS works, but how does the system logic accommodate close spaced formations of aircraft - Not just say tankers, but on a more local scale; formations crossing airspace ? -

Is it just the formation leader that has a transponder code allocated - Do loose formations present a whole new set of problems ?

CAT III

[Crazy Voyager]

TCAS can be operated in a TA-only mode, it will only provide advisory, not collision avoidance.

I know some companies use TA-only for example when flying a visual approach with someone to the paralell runway (think KSFO and you'll see why :p).

[Guest 112233]

Thanks for the reply - I know KFSO as a PAX - and the close spaced parallel runways.

CAT III

[HEATHROW DIRECTOR]

When I was working, the leader had his transponder on whilst the other(s) did not.