The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that the Civil
Aviation Safety Authority expand the requirements for the carriage
and activation of transponders with the object of maximising the
effectiveness of airborne collision avoidance systems.
I refer to the draft ASO Report on the traffic confliction
incident involving Beech 1900, VH-IMA, Beech 1900, VH-IMH, Piper
PA-31 (Chieftain) VH-SVV, and De Havilland DHC-8-201 (Dash 8),
VH-TQO, which occurred near Port Macquarie, NSW on 28 April
1999.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority does not agree with
recommendations R20000181 and R20000182, but supports
recommendations R20000184, R20000198 and R20000199. R20000183 is
still being considered.
CASA is, at this stage, still considering R20000183 and is
currently reviewing mandatory requirements for the carriage and
activation of transponders. Although the current level of
transponder fitment in the Australian fleet is high, it is accepted
that a higher level of fitment and mandatory requirements for
activation of transponders where TCAS-equipped aircraft are
operating would enhance safety.
ATSB comment:
As at 20 March 2008, no further advice had been received from
CASA on their consideration of the recommendation and the ATSB
reclassifies it is Closed - Not Accepted.
