More than 40,000 ADS-B equipment installed on aircraft flying in United States, GAMA says

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As of Sept. 1, rule-compliant Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment is now installed on more than 40,000 aircraft flying in the United States, according to a recent announcement by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).

As the modernization of air traffic control systems continues to accelerate internationally, many aircraft have yet to implement ADS-B systems. Specifically, the Federal Aviation Administration estimates that as many as 160,000 general aviation aircraft will need to be equipped prior to the federal mandate scheduled to take place on Jan.1, 2020.

GAMA said that since the FAA announced the mandate, general aviation manufacturers worked hard to design ADS-B solutions that enhance safety at a reasonable cost. For light general aircraft, an ADS-B system can be installed for between $1,200 to $4,000.

“By choosing to equip now, operators are investing in their safety and ensuring they meet the 2020 deadline before installation lines grow long,” GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said. “We 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.”

Recently, the FAA offered a $500 rebate for owners of eligible aircraft to offset the costs of ADS-B installation. However, the offer expired at midnight on Sept. 18.