Like an oil tanker approaching a field of icebergs, GA owners are plotting a course into the ADS-B world of tomorrow. Here’s an update and our two cents.
An ADS-B Game plan
Recently an FAA-sponsored committee recommended the FAA not require equipage for ADS-B In, saying theres no good business case. Is this great, money-saving news for you?
Key Takeaways:
- General Aviation (GA) aircraft are mandated to equip with ADS-B Out by January 1, 2020, incurring a minimum cost of $3000, though ADS-B In for traffic and weather remains optional with no current FAA mandate.
- The choice of ADS-B system for Out compliance depends on flight altitude (1090 MHz for above 18,000 ft or 978 MHz UAT for lower-altitude aircraft), influencing capabilities for optional ADS-B In features like weather reception and comprehensive traffic awareness.
- Implementing optional ADS-B In solutions involves complex decisions regarding hardware, frequency choices (1090 MHz vs. 978 MHz), and desired features, with various trade-offs in cost, traffic visibility, and weather data availability.
- While waiting for potential installation cost reductions is tempting, pilots are strongly advised to schedule their ADS-B upgrade soon to avoid the inevitable backlog at avionics shops as the 2020 deadline approaches.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
