Solution Incorporates 978 MHz Data Radio, TSO Certified
GPS/WAAS Sensor
International avionics supplier FreeFlight Systems announced
Wednesday a new solution for pilots seeking an affordable means to
incorporate Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast into their
aircraft. ADS-B is the cornerstone of the FAA's NextGen air traffic
management which takes advantage of the ongoing advancements in
satellite-based navigation.
FreeFlight Systems' ADS-B Out System combines a 978 MHz data
radio with its TSO-certified 1201 or 1203 GPS/WAAS sensor, dual
antennas, and compact control head, giving air traffic controllers
more accurate positional information than can be obtained from
traditional ground-based radars. This new system will provide the
operator with WAAS positional accuracy, along with the ability to
broadcast ADS-B "out" aircraft position information over the 978
MHz frequency.
The FreeFlight Systems solution does not replace the existing
transponder on the aircraft and can be installed with virtually no
disruption to current aircraft avionics systems. Looking to the
future, the design provides an upgrade path for ADS-B In and its
associated benefits, including TIS-B and FIS-B.
"Our ADS-B solution requires minimal changes to the existing
cockpit making it efficient, effective, and economical for
operators to implement. We understand that cost and time
implications are a real concern, especially for those flying in
non-radar airspace where ADS-B promises greater efficiency and
safety. We designed our solution with these considerations at the
forefront," said Tim Taylor, president and CEO, FreeFlight
Systems.
An example of that kind of airspace is the Gulf of Mexico where
the FAA is implementing ADS-B and encouraging early adoption by
helicopter operators supporting the offshore oil industry.
Added Robert Schneier, chief operating officer, FreeFlight
Systems, "business and helicopter fleet operators, and general
aviation pilots participation in the implementation of ADS-B is
critical to the achievement of the FAA's NextGen goals. Now, they
have an ADS-B solution with superior precision and integrity
available to them - one that they can be easily implement without a
significant impact to their budgets."
With a two year warranty, the ADS-B Out System will be
manufactured under an FAA Technical Standards Order (TSO) and
certified and installed under a Supplemental Type Certificate
(STC). FreeFlight Systems ADS-B Out 978 MHz Data Radio Solution
will be available during 3rd quarter 2009.