ADS-B: What’s the Big Deal?
What is ADS-B?
ADS-B stands for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast. It’s a type of navigation system that utilizes the Global Positioning System (GPS) to broadcast signals, which is different from the current air traffic system, which uses RADAR and radio waves to transmit signals. RADAR works well, but isn’t as accurate or as dependable as GPS.
The Meaning Behind “ADS-B”:
Automatic: The signal is always transmitting and requires no user to operate it.
Dependent: The system is dependent on the satellite system to work.
Surveillance: The system provides surveillance, much like that of RADAR.
Broadcast: The system broadcasts aircraft position, speed, direction and other data to an ADS-B ground station for interpretation.
How Does it Work?
In a nutshell, ADS-B works by automatically and continuously broadcasting data. An ADS-B equipped airplane has a special transponder that works with the GPS and ground stations to transmit and interpret very accurate data. On an airplane, this means the airplane continuously and simultaneously sends data such as location, direction, speed, etc. to other ADS-B users, including other ADS-B equipped aircraft and air traffic control towers.
What’s the big deal?
ADS-B is a big deal for a few reasons:
- First, it’s the most advanced and most accurate system to date. It’s already proven to be more reliable than current air traffic systems.
- Second, ADS-B plays a primary role in the FAA’s NextGen program, which aims to reduce air traffic congestion and make flying safer and more efficient over the next twelve years.
- Thirdly, ADS-B will eventually replace the current RADAR system, creating a new world of flying. If you thought this was just another new technology you could pass on, you’re wrong: The FAA has mandated that by the year 2020, all aircraft flying in controlled airspace will be required to be ADS-B equipped. Whether we want to or not, all of us will have to accept ADS-B into our aviation lives if we want to continue flying or maintain careers in aviation.
So what’s the big deal for me- the flight student?
You, as a flight student, will need to adjust to using ADS-B. Luckily, you’ll be a step ahead of everyone else, since Phoenix East Aviation has equipped almost all of its aircraft with ADS-B already! For the most part, your job is just to learn the system, accept it and use it. (That’s the fun part!)
As a flight student today, you’ll witness drastic changes in the national airspace system with the implementation of ADS-B. And since the FAA’s Final Rule says that all aircraft will need to be equipped by 2020, you’ll most likely continue to fly ADS-B equipped aircraft when you graduate from PEA.
