Didn the Pilot Opinion Poll say that pilots don want mandatory ELTs?
Yes, the 2004 on-line opinion poll showed support for mandatory ELTs by only 42% of the respondents. However, survey results from SRA meetings held during the contest season were also considered. In one example, 80% of those present at the SRA meeting during the 2004 Standard Class Nationals in Hobbs, NM favored mandatory ELTs. In the end, it was recognized that the effect of mandatory ELTs goes well beyond the cost to the pilots. Consequently, the opinion poll was only one of the factors considered. When the positive benefit to contest organizers, the soaring community, and the SSA were considered as well, the balance was easily tipped in favor of the initiative.
