Collision Avoidance
Looking at outside when flying is the primary way to avoid other aircraft. You can begin to understand your eyes and their limitations by reading some of the links on this page.
There are some technologies mentioned on this page that can aid in collision avoidance and pick up where your eyes and our human behavior fail us. Choosing the right gadget(s) is complicated because we are in a transition period.
In 2020, ADS-B will be required wherever transponders are currently required.
The FAA glider transponder exemption might go away.
There are transponders that communicate with ADS-B equipment. e.g., Trig.
There could be gadgets developed in the near future, before 2020, that do everything that we need.
Transponder Local Agreement
Events
Individual mid-air collisions can be reviewed by examining the NTSB accident database. MORE INFO...
Visual Scanning
As of 13 Oct 2012, the local FAA Air Traffic Control office (Houston TRACON) has agreed to tow planes squawking 1202. As part of that agreement, there is a small change in glider transponder procedures. This agreement covers both glider clubs in the Houston area (SCOH and GHSA).
AOPA's Safety Advisor Collision Avoidance Strategies
Video example of empty-field myopia (YouTube video)
Empty Field Myopia (SKYbrary.aero)
Houston Arrivals
Traffic is closer and faster than you may think!
FLARMFLARM warns FLARM-equipped aircraft of impending collisions plus gives the location of non-threatening nearby FLARM-equipped aircraft and conventional transponder equipped aircraft.
Interactive Map of Midair Collisions and Near Midairs
Use the checkbox at the top left to add the midair data
Next Gen: ADS-BSee page 6 of the following document:
Traffic and Anti-Collision Technologies for Gliders
SSA Tech Supplement
What Happens if You Don't Install ADS-B?
EAA "Sport Aviation" Aug 2014
Parachuting OperationsDetails on parachuting operations near SCOH.