CASA today released a discussion paper (DP) on the merits of allowing VFR aircraft to fit low-cost Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment.
ADS-B is already mandatory in commercial IFR aircraft and will become mandatory for all IFR aircraft from 2020, but there is currently no requirement for VFR aircraft to fit the technology.
"CASA believes that [ADS-B] technology is an appropriate solution for improving aircraft visibility," CASA states in the DP. "All [sic] aircraft operating under the instrument flight rules are already required to carry ADS-B transmitting equipment (ADS-B OUT). There is also an extensive ADS-B ground receiver network that enhances ATC's ability to provide surveillance services in even the remotest parts of Australia.
"This discussion paper explores ways to increase the voluntary fitment rate across the VFR fleet by allowing a greater choice of ADS-B technologies to be considered 'fit for purpose' for VFR operations.
"CASA believes that increasing the fitment rate of ADS-B technology in VFR aircraft will further enhance safety by increasing the visibility of aircraft to ATC and other aircraft."
The DP comes after the Australian Strategic Air Traffic Management Group (ASTRA) issued a paper in May 2016 championing the benefits of low-cost ADS-B in VFR aircraft.
ASTRA proposed that CASA should accept FAA Technical Service Order (TSO) C199 as acceptable for VFR, or that CASA allow non-TSO approved avionics in VFR provided the manufacturer has a statement of compliance with the TSO.
CASA subsequently launched a project in July last year, which has resulted in the DP issued this morning.
Although CASA has not stated a prefered option, the DP considers only technology that would be visible to:
- Airborne Collision Avoidance Systems (ACAS)
- aircraft ADS-B IN equipment
- ATC ADS-B ground stations
- Mode S SSR (in some configurations).
The discussion paper also stresses that, regardless of the outcome of the DP, ADS-B fitment would remain voluntary for the time being, but does not rule out a possible mandate in the future.
Responses to the DP can be done on the CASA website. The deadline for submissions is 23 February 2018.