Airservices Australia will provide enhanced separation services to all aircraft fitted with Automatic Dependant Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B Out) technology operating outside of radar coverage.
The move follows changes to the approval process that previously required individual aircraft operators to apply to receive an ADS-B service, and brings the process into line with that required for almost all other avionics and aircraft systems.
ADS-B is a satellite-based technology enabling aircraft to be accurately tracked by air traffic controllers and other pilots without the need for conventional radar. All flights at or above 29,000 feet are required to be fitted with ADS-B equipment by December 12 2013.
Although the change in the approval process means individual aircraft approvals will no longer be required, operators must ensure that ADS-B transmissions comply with Civil Aviation Orders and that flightcrews are adequately trained to operate the ADS-B equipment, Airservices said.
“Whilst responsibility for ensuring aircraft meet the CASA regulations when operating in Australian airspace rests with the operators, Airservices will retain the capability to suspend ADS-B services for any aircraft known to be not complying,” said Greg Dunstone, Airservices ADS-B program manager.
