[Avionics Today April 14, 2014] The FAA has completed the nationwide implementation of the ground-based infrastructure for its Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) radio network under the NextGen program.
ADS-B is one of the biggest core NextGen programs, designed to provide traffic information to controllers and situational awareness services to pilots in aircraft equipped with ADS-B-In avionics. The agency said Exelis has finished the installation of the 634 ground stations used to broadcast aircraft position on Air Traffic Controller (ATCs) screens almost continuously, as compared to every 4.7 seconds or longer with radar coverage.
“The installation of this radio network clears the way for air traffic controllers to begin using ADS-B to separate equipped aircraft nationwide,” FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said. “It will also provide pilots flying aircraft equipped with the proper avionics with traffic information, weather data and other flight information.”
According to the FAA, 100 out of the 230 air traffic facilities across the U.S. are currently using ADS-B to separate air traffic. The agency expects ADS-B to be connected at all 230 facilities by 2019.
All aircraft operating in controlled airspace throughout the National Airspace System (NAS) are required to equip with ADS-B Out avionics by Jan. 1, 2020.