On Dec. 2, the Federal Aviation Administration revised Technical Standard Order C-166 for 1090 MHz extended squitter automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) and traffic information services-broadcast (TIS-B), as well as TSO C-154 for universal access transceiver (UAT) ADS-B.

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS:
The ADS-B system is a crucial component of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). It provides surveillance and improved situational awareness simultaneously to pilots and air traffic controllers. ADS-B is designed to improve the safety, capacity and efficiency of the national airspace system while providing a flexible, expandable platform to accommodate future air traffic growth.

According to TSO-C166b, new models of 1090 MHz ADS-B and TIS-B equipment identified and manufactured after Dec. 2, 2009, must meet the MPS qualification and documentation requirements for the applicable equipment class in RTCA Inc. document RTCA DO-260B, “Minimum Operational Performance Standards for 1090 MHz Extended Squitter Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast and Traffic Information Services-Broadcast,” Section 2, dated Dec. 2, 2009.

According to TSO-C154c, new models of UAT ADS-B equipment and/or UAT diplexers identified and manufactured after Dec. 2, 2009, must meet the MPS qualification and documentation requirements in RTCA Inc. document RTCA DO-282B, “Minimum Operational Performance Standards for Universal Access Transceiver Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast, “Section 2, dated Dec. 2, 2009.

AEA COMMENTARY:
We are pleased with the efforts of the FAA and RTCA to finalize the TSOs necessary for the long-awaited ADS-B technology. The TSOs are the first necessary step before the FAA can finalize the ADS-B equipage mandate as proposed in October 2007. The FAA expects to release the final ADS-B rule in April 2010.