The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) welcomed the recent news that as of September 1, rule-compliant Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment is now on board over 40,000 aircraft flying in the United States.<\/p>\n
Air traffic control system modernization activities are accelerating worldwide. It is vital that aircraft owners begin to make informed decisions about how to comply with emerging and existing regulatory mandates by selecting the right equipment for their aircraft\u2019s typical mission. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has estimated that 100,000 to 160,000 general aviation aircraft will need to be equipped with ADS-B Out before the January 1, 2020, mandate.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re now just over two years out from the FAA compliance deadline,\u201d said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce. \u201cAs we move forward, knowing that date will not change, it is essential that those operators who haven\u2019t yet, make a plan for equipage to avoid having their aircraft grounded and losing its residual value.\u201d<\/p>\n
Since the FAA announced the mandate, general aviation manufacturers have worked hard to design, develop, certify and make available ADS-B products that enhance safety for operators at a reasonable cost. Some solutions for light general aviation aircraft are available for a range from $1,200 to $4,000, each providing significant safety benefits when presented on an ADS-B IN capable display. The FAA is also offering a $500 rebate to offset an owner\u2019s cost on an eligible aircraft until midnight tonight.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy choosing to equip now, operators are investing in their safety and ensuring they meet the 2020 deadline before installation lines grow long,\u201d added Bunce. \u201cWe are very pleased with the continuous growth in equipage, and manufacturers will continue working with the FAA and operators to facilitate equipage as the deadline approaches.\u201d<\/p>\n