Discussion paper - Voluntary fitment of ADS-B technology in VFR aircraft (DP 1701AS)

Closed 23 Feb 2018

Opened 15 Dec 2017

Contact

131 757

regulatoryconsultation@casa.gov.au

Results updated 20 Sep 2018

This consultation sought the views of avionics manufacturers and installers on appropriate technical standards and equipment that could enable lower cost ADS-B to be fitted voluntarily in VFR aircraft.

It also asked the wider VFR community whether they would adopt the technology if it was available. 

We received 80 responses to the consultation, with permission to publish 61.

Outcomes:

Many respondents supported the initiative for lower cost ADS-B and could see the value of ADS-B being widely adopted across the VFR community. There was also strong support for technology that is compatible with different devices and meets an internationally recognised standard.

What we will do next

Based on the responses to the consultation, CASA will change the rules to make it easier for VFR aircraft to install ADS-B technology. The amended rules will enact the following changes:

  • ADS-B 1090ES will be the technical standard recommended for VFR aircraft. This option was supported by 73% of respondents.
  • For type certificated aircraft: ADS-B installations will be classed as minor modifications, eliminating the need for Engineering Orders.
  • For non-type certificated aircraft (including amateur home-built and sports aviation aircraft):
  • owners and operators will be able to install ADS-B avionics under self-  administration arrangements
  • uncertified ADS-B OUT avionics will be able to be used in any class of airspace, as long as it meets the performance standards specified in CASA’s CAO 20.18 or equivalent USA or European standards.
  • Portable ADS-B devices meeting at least the FAA TSO-C199 or the latest UK CAA Electronic Conspicuity standards will be useable for all types of VFR operation (powered or non-powered) in Classes D, E and G airspace.

Implementing these changes will require some amendments to CASA’s legislation, including the ADS-B equipment information in CAO 20.18.

Please note: The aviation community will have the opportunity to view and comment on these amendments before they are finalised. 

Further information and a full summary of the feedback received on the discussion paper is available below.

Files:

Published responses

View submitted responses where consent has been given to publish the response.

Overview

Automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS-B) is a technology that enables an aircraft to be detected by air traffic control and aircraft systems. It is mandated for all aircraft operating under the instrument flight rules (IFR).  

Australia maintains an extensive ADS-B ground receiver network that enables a surveillance environment for air traffic services and enhances search and rescue capability. ADS-B receiver technology (ADS-B IN) is also available and provides an in-cockpit graphical presentation of ADS-B information from surrounding aircraft and, depending on the particular equipment, can provide visual or aural alerts about potential collisions.

CASA hopes that by exploring ADS-B compatible technologies, a safe and effective solution may be available at a reduced cost to allow for greater participation within the ADS-B system.

Why your views matter

This discussion paper explores ways to increase the voluntary fitment rate across Australia's fleet of aircraft that operate under the VFR. This could be done by allowing greater choice of ADS-B technologies to be considered 'fit for purpose'. While the discussion paper focuses on the ADS-B OUT component, we believe the ideal end state is where the maximum number of both VFR and IFR aircraft are fitted with ADS-B OUT and ADS-B IN equipment.

We would like to hear from industry stakeholders, particularly avionics installers and manufacturers, about types of ADS-B equipment that would meet an acceptable standard, and if other technical standards exist that should be considered as the minimum.

We would also like to hear from the broader VFR community to gain an understanding of the interest in, and likely uptake of, these products, if they are made readily available.

A copy of the discussion paper is provided below. You can read it on this screen using the scroll bar or save it to your computer using the popup options.

Please read the document before providing your feedback in the online survey.

Your browser does not support inline PDF viewing.Please download the PDF.

What happens next

CASA will analyse the results of this survey to assist with a decision about pursuing technical standards and equipment types suitable for use in VFR aircraft. Based on the input from industry, CASA may develop proposals on new equipment standards for consultation. Any rule change required would be considered by the Aviation Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) and broader industry through a notice of proposed rule making (NPRM).

 

Audiences

  • Air operators
  • Manufacturers
  • Pilots
  • Sport and recreation operators/clubs
  • Hot air balloon operators
  • Air traffic controller(s)
  • Drone operators
  • Foreign operator

Interests

  • Airworthiness / maintenance
  • Drones/uncrewed aircraft systems
  • Airspace and infrastructure
  • Sport and recreational aviation