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.

FMI: www.freeflightsystems.com