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kungfuman · Member Joined: 27 Mar 2009 Posts: 11 Location: EGGD

Hi folks,

I have posted a question in a different section, but I thought I should post here too as it is related to my aviation hobby. Please take a look here:

http://airlinersindia.s4.bizhat.com/airlinersindia-ftopic9266.html

Any help will be gratefully received Very Happy

Many thanks,

Dan

Nimish · Posted: Wed Mar 31, 2010 6:54 pm Post subject:

I've never heard military a/c on the regular frequencies - or maybe I was not paying attention. Of course at this stage scanners are considered a strict no-no - esp. after the 2 spotters in DEL who were arrested.
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We miss you Nalini!

kungfuman · Member Joined: 27 Mar 2009 Posts: 11 Location: EGGD

Hi Nimish,

From what I understand, it is not scanners that are the problem. The problem is the devices that decode the transponder signals, giving detailed info on the location, altitude etc. The Brits who were arrested and charged had some pretty advanced kit, and personally I think they were a bit foolish to simply assume that this wouldn't cause any problems - especially as foreign nationals. Also, they plead guilty so as to get back home as swiftly as possible, knowing that they would be fined and not jailed. Had they not plead guilty, their stay in custody would have been prolonged, but they may also have eventually been cleared.

Therefore, I am not convinced we should simply assume that it is basic scanners and listening in that is illegal. If you are Indian through and through, and you are not even "loitering" at the airfield perimeter, the authorities are not likely to know about you. Even if they did, they probably wouldn't even care. Listening in using a simple receiver doesn't reveal sensitive info about precise position of aircraft, and is not likely to be a concern.

I would be interested to know if anyone could clarify this matter further. What is the actual law?