FAA SAFO - Xpndr mode while on ground

[lgabriel]

I just got an email notification for this Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO 15006) from the FAA.

It recommends that all operators (including GA pilots) "enable transponders to the altitude reporting mode...any time their aircraft is positioned on any portion of an airport movement area".  It goes on to suggest changes to checklists, but references over and over again "altitude reporting mode" (and makes no mention of "ground" modes).

Does the SV-XPNDR-261's AUTO/GND setting comply with what the FAA is trying to accomplish here?

Thanks!

 

[dynonsupport]

Yes, AUTO mode is appropriate.

There's actually two different modes in a Mode-S transponder:

Air/GND

ALT / No ALT

So you can actually have GND+ALT or GND+NO ALT. AIR mode responds to all interrogations, whereas GND is only ground radars. ALT determines if you reply with your Mode-C (altitude) code or not when you reply.

Our auto mode is GND+ALT when on the ground which is exactly what the FAA wants.