What capabilities does TCAS II provide that TCAS I does not?

TCAS II enhances the functionality of TCAS I by providing both traffic advisories and resolution advisories. Traffic advisories alert pilots to the presence of nearby aircraft that may pose a potential collision risk, allowing them to be aware of their surroundings. However, TCAS II goes further by offering resolution advisories that are actively calculated and communicated to the pilots, instructing them on specific vertical maneuvers to avoid a potential conflict with another aircraft. This proactive approach to collision avoidance significantly improves safety in the airspace compared to TCAS I, which only provides basic traffic advisories without further guidance on how to react in a potential conflict situation. Therefore, the capability of TCAS II to issue both types of advisories is crucial for enhancing situational awareness and preventing mid-air collisions.