Will ADS-B replace radar?
Called Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B), the technology will eventually replace radar as the primary surveillance method for Air Traffic Control (ATC) monitoring and separation of aircraft worldwide. This is called ADS-B Out. Being able to receive this information is known as ADS-B In.
Is ADS-B cheaper than radar?
These devices will be part of a system known as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), and they’re far cheaper than radars to build and maintain. Airplanes equipped with ADS-B can also exchange data, conferring to pilots awareness of airspace now available only in the control tower.
Is the ADS-B a replacement for primary radar?
ADS-B is not intended to replace primary radar. As a new addition to the surveillance technology mix, it will not replace any other technology in the short term. ADS-B is a form of cooperative surveillance, meaning that the aircraft or vehicle that is supposed to be tracked needs to cooperate by transmitting the ADS-B signal.
When does ADS-B become mandatory for all aircraft?
The percentage of aircraft equipped with ADS-B receivers is steadily increasing though, as they will become mandatory for most aircraft around the world by 2020. When mandatory, ADS-B will replace primary radar as the primary surveillance method used by ATC.
What can an ADS-B receiver be used for?
An ADS-B receiver allows reception of ADS-B signals from other aircraft. These can be used for example to create a Cockpit Display of Traffic Information (CDTI) or augment TCAS. The number of aircraft with this so called ADS-B IN is increasing, but the equipage percentage is probably below 2% at the moment.
How are we able to track flights with ADS-B?
The primary technology we use to receive flight data is called Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast ( ADS-B ). This relatively new technology enables us to track aircraft in real-time with great accuracy. As ADS-B becomes industry standard the number of flights we are able to track will rise.