ADS-B OUT
ADS-B OUT equipment broadcasts messages up to twice per second.
Dedicated ADS-B ground stations receive the broadcasts and relay the information to air traffic control for precise tracking of the aircraft. Air traffic controllers can use this data to separate aircraft in controlled airspace.
ADS-B IN
ADS-B IN systems receive information from other ADS-B OUT equipped aircraft in range. Pilots can see the information presented on a cockpit display of traffic information or in the form of sound alerts. This information can improve pilot situational awareness including providing information about potential aircraft-aircraft conflicts.
Australia’s ADS-B receiver network
Australia commissioned the world’s first continent-wide ADS-B receiver network in 2009. The network is important for continuing to provide safe and efficient air traffic services.
There are many ADS-B ground stations located across Australia. Each ground station has a maximum range of more than 250 nautical miles. The ability of a ground station to receive a signal depends on:
- altitude
- distance from the site
- obstructing terrain.
In airspace immediately surrounding each ground station, surveillance coverage extends to near the surface. In areas further away from a ground station, the coverage may only be at certain heights.
You can view maps showing ADS-B coverage on the Airservices website.
Equipping with ADS-B OUT
The flight rules you’re operating under determines if your aircraft requires ADS-B OUT equipment.
Operating under the instrument flight rules (IFR)
All aircraft operating in Australia under the IFR must be fitted with approved ADS-B OUT equipment. Unless ATC instructs otherwise, the equipment must be continuously operated in flight or on the ground at Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne or Perth aerodrome.
Operating under the visual flight rules (VFR)
In general, you don’t need to fit ADS-B OUT equipment.
The exception where you must use ADS-B OUT equipment is when you fly an approved VFR flight at or above flight level 290. Other rules about having a transponder may still apply.
You must keep all surveillance equipment on during flight and while on the ground at Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne or Perth aerodromes. This applies regardless of what equipment you have fitted or whether it's required, unless ATC instructs you otherwise.
We strongly encourage VFR operators to fit both ADS-B IN and OUT technology for the safety benefits it offers. Any ADS-B OUT equipment must be of an acceptable configuration.
You can find these details under Division 26.16 'Surveillance equipment' of the Part 91 Manual of Standards.
Read more about buying and fitting ADS-B equipment.
