When Should I Equip for ADS-B?

When you’re required to equip for ADS-B depends largely on where you fly. In the U.S., you must equip by 2020. But in other parts of the world, you may be required to equip much sooner. Regardless of regulations, you can equip today to start taking advantage of ADS-B’s benefits.

What is ADS-B "In" and ADS-B "Out"?

With ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast), you’ll be required to broadcast your position information to ADS-B ground stations and other aircraft. This is called ADS-B “Out.” Those ground stations are also broadcasting information you can use if your aircraft is equipped with ADS-B “In”.

What is an approved ADS-B position source?

With ADS-B, each aircraft needs an approved ADS-B position source to calculate its precise position using highly accurate WAAS/SBAS GPS data. This position is then broadcast to ATC and other ADS-B “In” equipped aircraft in their vicinity.

How do I broadcast my ADS-B information?

You can either broadcast your information using an extended squitter or by using a universal access transceiver. Which option is best for your aircraft depends on where you fly and what equipment you might already have installed.

Why are we switching to ADS-B?

ADS-B allows air traffic controllers to route traffic more efficiently, reducing congestion, noise, emission and fuel consumption. It also promises to keep our skies safer by enhancing situational awareness. And even better, properly equipped aircraft will gain an affordable way to get datalink traffic, as well as subscription-free weather over the U.S.