popey is on the right theme ...
I have just recently started flying the goon, and I flew 3 successful goon flights last night. Each time I approached the base/town to be taken (starting at least 10 miles out), I announced my position (8.7.6 or approaching NE of town) and repeatedly asked for status, and each and everytime I was completely ignored (even on range channel !!!) ... very frustrating. Nobody wants to circle around in a goon unless absolutely necessary so I said "F%&^ it" and dropped anyways ... lucky me !!!
Most goon drivers (usually the same guys all the time and SKurj is one of them - bless the goon drivers) are experienced goon drivers and from my observations ALWAYS ask status and announce approach direction and approx ETA.
With that in hand, why would we need a blinking icon. So those guys who don't give a rat's butt about you when you are on the radio, can be given a visual clue as to your approach. They probably wouldn't care anyways. They probably are there because the "Vulch Lamp" is lit and really aren't concerned with taking the base.
If you PAY ATTENTION while capping a base/town and watch the radio buffer, find out who the goon driver is and make the goon your wingman, you will know exactly where the goon is and where you need to go to protect or where not to go to drag.
SKurj, I understand your pain !!!, but until some of these people actually fly the goon, they will not appreciate what you go thru, but adding a blinking icon would be hokie IMHO and take away from the realism.
Whenever I see or hear ya coming ... If at all possible, I'll be there for ya.
