EAA Continues to Tie Loose Ends in ADS-B Mandate

December 8, 2016 - As the FAA’s January 1, 2020, ADS-B mandate draws one year closer, EAA’s advocacy staff continues its work to ensure important segments of the general aviation community are not left behind.

At the final Equip 2020 FAA/industry working group meeting of 2016, EAA made it clear that the FAA must work together with light-sport aircraft manufacturers to ensure a clear and simple path for S-LSA equipage. That especially goes for S-LSA aircraft that no longer have factory support or are orphaned due to defunct manufacturers. Over the course of the last two years, EAA has made it clear that it is unacceptable for certain S-LSAs to be barred from flying in ADS-B rule airspace after January 1, 2020, because they currently have no legal path to equipage.

In addition to S-LSA equipage, EAA, IAC and other associations continue to ask for clear policy guidance for aerobatic aircraft that do not meet the performance requirements of the ADS-B mandate while performing aerobatic maneuvers.  This technical issue is natural given the antenna position during maneuvers. The FAA has verbally stated that the issue is understood and will not result in a letter to the owner of the aircraft stating an ADS-B performance problem exists.  Obtaining this position from the FAA in writing will help achieve long-term clarity.

EAA will continue to ensure progress with these issues and others related to the ADS-B mandate through the Equip 2020 working group.