AOPA Finds ADS-B Proposal Needs Work

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AOPA has taken a first look at the FAA’s complex new ADS-B proposal, and found plenty of technical and cost issues that will affect general aviation pilots. Randy Kenagy, AOPA senior director of strategic planning, said an initial review of the 100-page Notice of Proposed Rulemaking showed that “much more work needs to be done before the FAA publishes its final rule.” The proposal would require all aircraft operators to install ADS-B equipment by 2020 if they want to fly in controlled airspace. The new avionics would provide cockpit weather and traffic information to pilots, replacing services such as flight following or en route vectoring. AOPA President Phil Boyer tied the FAA proposal to the current fight over user fees. “If they [the FAA] want GA pilots to spend thousands of dollars on new avionics, we need to make sure that the expenditures are considered as we assess what GA should pay in fuel taxes in the future FAA budget,” he said.

“Plus, we need to see clearly the safety and operational benefits. But also remember, this is a long time off. We at least have some time to prepare.” AOPA will undertake a full analysis of the proposed rule and file comments within the 90-day window.

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