Light Aircraft Association

I would like to fit a transponder, can I legally install a mode C on a voluntary basis? Or am I now forced to go to mode S ( which I cant afford ). I appreciate there are certain mandatory requirements for certain airspace but my flying is mostly open airspace.

I am no expert but in absence of any more informed replies, try this:

http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid ... geid=12136

In http://www.ead.eurocontrol.int/eadbasic ... -04-04.pdf

see Section 5.3
ie 5.3.1
You must have Elementary (ie not Enhanced) Mode S for flight in these UK airspaces :

(c) All aircraft within United Kingdom controlled airspace of Classification A, B and C.
(d) All aircraft operating under IFR within United Kingdom controlled airspace of Classification D and E.
(e) All aircraft within United Kingdom airspace at and above FL 100.
(f) All aircraft within United Kingdom airspace notified as a ‘Transponder
Mandatory Zone’. Note: Applies to Airspace Classes D, E, F and G as appropriate .
(g) All aircraft (including EU-OPS aeroplanes) registered in the United Kingdom, flying for the purpose of Public Transport

Note however Exceptions listed in 5.3.4
And Exemptions listed in 5.3.5

Phew!! No wonder a PPL now requires a pass in nine examinations!

So it seems it is not illegal to fit Mode C per se but doing so may restrict your flying to some degree.

Regards
Steve

As I understand it approval will now not be granted for fitting a mode A/C transponder

Thanks - I stand corrected - I just couldn't/can't find where/why CAA explicitly say they won't approve a Mode C for a new installation for Elementary Mode S, sub 5700 kg, non-turbine a/c, even if the a/c is going to be only flown on non-Mode S airspace. Clearly LAA have to mirror CAA approval policy.

Anyway I have now found this from 2009:

http://www.lightaircraftassociation.co. ... Rules.html

Regards
Steve