Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast ADS-B is a next generation surveillance technology incorporating both air and ground aspects that provide air traffic control (ATC) with a more accurate picture of the aircraft’s three-dimensional position in the en route, terminal, approach and surface environments. The aircraft provides the airborne portion in the form of a broadcast of its identification, position, altitude, velocity, and other information. The ground portion is comprised of ADS-B ground stations which receive these broadcasts and direct them to ATC automation systems for presentation on a controller’s display. In addition, aircraft equipped with ADS-B In capability can also receive these broadcasts and display the information to improve the pilot’s situation awareness of other traffic.• Automatic — Periodically transmits ID information with no pilot or operator input required
• Dependent — Position and velocity vector are derived from the Global Positioning System (GPS) or a Flight Management System (FMS)
• Surveillance — A method of determining position of aircraft, vehicles, or other assets
• Broadcast — Transmitted information available to anyone with the appropriate receiving equipment
Aviation Week & Space Technology is reporting that US Airways will participate in a test of the ADS-B system at it’s Philadelphia hub by retrofitting 9 existing A330-300 aircraft and will include additional A330-200 as they receive them from Airbus. A total of 20 aircraft may be included in the test, set to run through 2010.
The test is expected to bring the benefits of satellite-based navigation links to congested Northeast airspace and transatlantic routes and allow more precise merging and spacing, and even reduced in-trail separation in non-radar en route and oceanic sectors. The FAA hopes to improve efficiency and safety in terminal airspace, and also on transatlantic tracks.
Read the Aviation Week Article here: