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 owners must equip with ADS-B Out by January 1, 2020, incurring a minimum cost of around $3000, while ADS-B In for traffic and weather is optional.
- ADS-B operates on two frequencies (1090 MHz and 978 MHz), with 978 MHz being necessary to receive ADS-B weather. Traffic awareness varies based on frequency, altitude, and ground station proximity.
- Hardware choices depend on flight altitude (1090 MHz mandatory above 18,000 ft) and desired ADS-B In features, with solutions ranging from basic ADS-B Out to complex, multi-component systems costing upwards of $15,000.
- Though waiting for new market options and cheaper installation methods (e.g., AMLs) is advised, delaying too long risks encountering extensive avionics shop backlogs before the 2020 deadline.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
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