Originally Posted by
speedracerntrixie
I can say with 100% certainty that having a spotter scanning the airspace happens more frequently then you may think. During a sailplane flight the timers job is not only to give the pilot time updates but to scan the sky for signs of lift usually in the form of wind change, cloud formations, birds, other sailplanes but most importantly since an altitude of 2,000' is not uncommon, manned aircraft. During a Pattern flight, the callers job is not only to remind the pilot of the sequence of maneuvers but to be scanning the path of the airplane to avoid other participants and help with aerobatic box positioning as well.
Since I know that some in this thread are " show me the numbers " kind of guys. Perhaps he can show statistics where see and avoid has failed in keeping traditional models and full scale aircraft from colliding.
"More frequently than you may think?" Uhm, it's supposed to be all the time.
Show me the numbers? No need. I suggest you consult the Aeronautica Information Manual, 4-4-10(d) where it discusses systematic visual scanning (note 1). You have an obligation under the FARs to always avoid manned aircraft. You DO NOT have an obligation under the FARs to avoid other toy planes. Therefore, it is rather obvious that your "spotter's" primary job is searching 360 for MANNED aircraft. I also suggest your refresh yourself on the FARs, particularly 107.37. If your spotter isn't looking for the other aircraft 100% of the time, you can't really avoid what you don't see.
Note 1:
https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publ...d_10-12-17.pdf