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Aireon Satellite-Based ADS-B Goes Live

North Atlantic oceanic controllers are beginning reduced enroute separation trials. Courtesy Aireon
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Aireon's new space-based air traffic surveillance system is now operational, utilizing ADS-B receivers on Iridium satellites to provide real-time tracking for all ADS-B equipped aircraft globally.
  • This system significantly expands air traffic surveillance from 30% to 100% of the globe, eliminating the reliance on delayed position updates in previously un-surveilled oceanic regions.
  • Key benefits include improved safety, optimized flight routes leading to cost savings (up to US$300 per transatlantic flight) and reduced carbon emissions, and increased airspace capacity through reduced aircraft separation distances.
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Eight years of work culminated yesterday with the announcement that Aireon’s new space-based air traffic surveillance system became operational and immediately entered trials over the North Atlantic. Aireon’s ADS-B receivers are installed onboard all 66 of the newly launched Iridium satellite constellation now in low-earth orbit providing real-time air traffic surveillance and tracking to 100 percent of ADS-B equipped aircraft on the planet. Regulations mandating ADS-B equipage on aircraft have already been implemented throughout the world and take effect in the United States in January 2020 and in Europe in June 2020. Other countries are in the process of drafting mandates for implementation over the next few years.

Rob Mark

Rob Mark is an award-winning journalist, business jet pilot, flight instructor, and blogger.

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