Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of ADS-B, or Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast. As of January 1, 2020, you’ll need this equipment to routinely fly in U.S. airspace where the FARs now require a working Mode C transponder. The FAA rule mandating ADS-B in 2020 went into effect in 2010, so there’s little argument that operators haven’t had enough warning about it, and it’s not likely the FAA will change the deadline. There are two flavors of ADS-B, the “in” and “out” kinds. For now, only ADS-B Out is required in 2020; ADS-B In is optional. Both flavors are operational today, as the two coverage maps below demonstrate.
You or a pilot you know may already be flying with ADS-B In, perhaps using a portable receiver, but that’s a relatively easy and inexpensive option, at least as far as aviation is concerned. Until recently, there weren’t many low-cost options for ADS-B Out. That’s changing, however, and a new crop of products from various manufacturers may be as good and inexpensively priced as we’re going to see before the deadline. In the four-plus years before the deadline, it’s highly likely other products will be developed and brought to market. But as the deadline looms closer, demand will rise, as may prices. Is it time to make what may be a 20-year, $10,000 decision, and commit to a specific ADS-B solution?
