The ADS-B Mess

For the time being, a Mode C transponder is your key to regularly accessing Class A, Class B, TFR and ADIZ airspace. Under most circumstances, losing altitude squawk capability means ATC isnt going to let you into those places, although you can continue flying elsewhere. Thats one reason many operators have installed a second, back-up Mode C transponder, in case the primary box fails. But that Mode C transponder is destined to be supplemented by-maybe replaced by-the FAAs new air-traffic surveillance system, ADS-B, or automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast. As plans currently stand, well all need this technology installed in our aircraft to access various airspace types by 2020, when the FAAs final rule mandates the latest and greatest ATC system, NextGen, is implemented. Putting aside the new systems relative merits and implementation timetable, the time will come when at least ADS-B Out equipment will be required for a lot of places we want to go.

Key Takeaways:

• By 2020, ADS-B Out equipment will be mandatory for accessing various types of airspace, supplementing or replacing Mode C transponders as part of the FAA's NextGen system.
• Current ADS-B Out configurations are vulnerable to single-component failures (e.g., GPS, altitude source, or transmitter), which can result in grounding and loss of access to controlled airspace.
• Achieving fault tolerance requires solutions with independent position and altitude sources, with fully integrated and more robust systems expected to emerge in the future.

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