There are different types of ADS-B which offer a range of options for aircraft flying under visual flight rules.
These include:
- simple devices providing you and other pilots with improved situational awareness but not visible to air traffic control
- equipment visible to the air traffic control system and useable for air traffic separation purposes.
What you buy depends on the type of flying you do. Both options provide significant safety benefits regardless of cost or complexity of the equipment.
There are strict technical requirements that apply to any ADS-B OUT equipment used in Australia. Before purchasing equipment, check the equipment it meets the appropriate Australian standards.
Learn more about how ADS-B works.
Electronic conspicuity devices
An electronic conspicuity (EC) device is a low cost way to have both an ADS-B OUT and ADS-B IN capability. EC devices are intended for air-to-air situational awareness in non-controlled airspace.
You can use an EC device in a non-certified aircraft.
Air traffic control cannot use information from EC devices. This means you cannot use an EC device to meet a transponder or surveillance requirement for operations in a particular class of airspace.
Aircraft with ADS-B IN can detect aircraft equipped with EC devices.
Read more about EC devices on our Surveillance network and equipment page.
Approved ADS-B equipment
Your avionics installer or equipment supplier is best placed to advise you on what you need for your aircraft.
If your aircraft will be flying Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), it will need:
- performance-based navigation capable system (GNSS)
- certification to a relevant standard.
You must have an avionics LAME fit and certify the system.
What to consider before buying
There are a wide range of choices to suit your operations. Before buying, consider:
- aircraft type and airworthiness category
- whether you have registered the aircraft with us or a self-administering organisation
- likelihood you may fly the aircraft under the IFR in future
- classes of airspace, traffic type and density in intended areas of operation
- confirmation that the product satisfies the relevant equipment specifications
- physical size, display clarity, ease of use, and functionality
- cockpit space and accessibility of portable devices
- other equipment carried in the aircraft and compatibility
- for portable equipment, battery life relative to the types of operations envisaged
- cost, product quality and installation and support arrangements.