mstull
R.I.P.
I am concerned that ADS-B will affect Part 103 U/L operations. I realize that ultralights are not classified as aircraft. But it's pretty clear that the FAA wants all operations in controlled airspace to be protected by ADS-B. So U/Ls will probably be limited to class G airspace. That will decrease our usable altitudes to below 1,200' or 700' AGL.
This will also affect "real" aircraft/pilots who can't afford the avionics or don't have electrical systems. It will be interesting to see if there's an increase in low altitude operations, when the rule goes into effect.
"FAA to Pilots: Be Ready for ADS-B by 2020
The FAA said on Tuesday it wants all aircraft flying in controlled airspace to have satellite-based avionics by 2020, so air traffic controllers can track them using Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B). The agency issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (PDF) that says the equipment will allow controllers to handle more traffic more safely with less separation. "Aviation must take the big step into the next generation of technology," said Acting FAA Administrator Bobby Sturgell. "It's safer and more accurate. Satellite technology is here to stay." Pilots with ADS-B cockpit displays can see, in real time, their location in relation to other aircraft, bad weather and terrain. In Southwest Alaska, the fatal accident rate for ADS-B-equipped aircraft has dropped by 47 percent, the FAA said. Aircraft that don't fly in controlled airspace will not be required to have ADS-B avionics, the FAA said."
This will also affect "real" aircraft/pilots who can't afford the avionics or don't have electrical systems. It will be interesting to see if there's an increase in low altitude operations, when the rule goes into effect.
"FAA to Pilots: Be Ready for ADS-B by 2020
The FAA said on Tuesday it wants all aircraft flying in controlled airspace to have satellite-based avionics by 2020, so air traffic controllers can track them using Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B). The agency issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (PDF) that says the equipment will allow controllers to handle more traffic more safely with less separation. "Aviation must take the big step into the next generation of technology," said Acting FAA Administrator Bobby Sturgell. "It's safer and more accurate. Satellite technology is here to stay." Pilots with ADS-B cockpit displays can see, in real time, their location in relation to other aircraft, bad weather and terrain. In Southwest Alaska, the fatal accident rate for ADS-B-equipped aircraft has dropped by 47 percent, the FAA said. Aircraft that don't fly in controlled airspace will not be required to have ADS-B avionics, the FAA said."