ADS-B

ADS-B Out Explained

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Countries around the world are implementing a more accurate way of tracking aircraft. Called Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B), the technology will eventually replace radar as the primary surveillance method for Air Traffic Control (ATC) monitoring and separation of aircraft worldwide.

The United States and other countries have published regulations mandating ADS-B on aircraft operating in their regions according to differing schedules. Some countries that don’t yet require the equipment have designated special routes and airspace to benefit those who voluntarily equip.

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ADS-B allows equipped aircraft and ground vehicles to broadcast their identification, position, altitude and velocity to other aircraft and ATC. This is called ADS-B Out. Being able to receive this information is known as ADS-B In.

"ADS-B Out is an evolutionary step in communication between the aircraft and other airspace consumers. Current transponders enable ATC and other aircraft to know your aircraft's relative position and altitude. ADS-B adds important information to help project and prevent traffic conflicts by estimating intent.

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South Africa is in the final stage of ADS-B.

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What does this mean for you the aircraft owner? Well I have summed it up as simply as possible:

• All Aircraft Flying IFR in South African Class A, B, C or E airspace must carry a serviceable ADS-B Transponder which includes Mode S.

• All Aircraft flying above 10,000ft MSL must be ADS-B IN and OUT compliant.

• ADS-B in South Africa is Satellite based and not Ground based.

• South Africa will only be operating on the 1090ES ADS-B network.

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ADS-B is not law yet in Namibia but it's just a matter of time, any Namibian aircraft flying into South Africa will need to be ADS-B compliant.