FAA Loosens Restrictions on ADS-B for Balloons

Balloon operators will be allowed to fly in Class C airspace without ADS-B if they obtain a letter of agreement (LOA) from the FAA.

Amelia Walsh

Monday, March 20, 2023 at 02:26 PM ET

Verified

The FAA has agreed to allow balloon operators to fly in Class C airspace without ADS-B equipment if they obtain a letter of agreement (LOA). [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA will now allow balloon operators to fly in Class C airspace without automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) equipment, provided they obtain a Letter of Agreement (LOA).
This decision clarifies a 2020 ADS-B mandate that caused confusion for balloon operators, as balloons lack the electrical systems required for the technology.
The change addresses concerns from the ballooning community about the mandate's high costs and its potential negative impact on recreational ballooning and major events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Following a yearslong discussion with industry leaders, the FAA has agreed to allow balloon operators to fly in Class C airspace without automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) equipment if they obtain a letter of agreement (LOA).

According to the FAA, “Each operator, whether a commercial business or individual pilot, will sign a LOA with the FAA to confirm they know the proper procedures in the Class C airspace that surrounds the areas.”