5 things you should know about ADS-B authorization

One topic that causes constant confusion for international business jet operators is ADS-B Out: what it is, why you need it and when it’s required. To help clear the air, here are five things you need to know about ADS-B Out.

1.  ADS-B = Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast, or ADS-B, is a satellite-based aircraft monitoring system set to replace today’s radar-based system. The system uses the aircraft’s GPS to determine positioning information, and then sends this information to ATC. Whereas radar is only able to update an aircraft’s position once every 3 to 12 seconds, with ADS-B ATC this happens every second. This transmission of data from the avionics to ATC is called ADS-B Out.

2. Authorization is required in east Asia

Although not currently required for operations over the US, many other countries do require ADS-B approvals from an operators’ civil aviation authority. As this list regularly changes, it is highly recommended to always check with your safety management professional before leaving on any international trip

3. The US will require ADS-B starting in 2020

In 2010, the FAA published new rules that require operators to have ADS-B Out avionics by January 1st, 2020. This regulation applies to:

  • Class A, B and C airspace
  • All airspace at and above 10,000 feet MSL over the 48 contiguous United States and the District of Columbia
  • Within 30 nautical miles of airports listed in 14 CFR sec. 91.225, from the surface up to 10,000 feet MSL
  • Class E airspace over the Gulf of Mexico from the US coastline out to 12 nautical miles, at and above 3,000 feet MSL

4. The LOA – what it is and when you need it

As most new aircraft come ADS-B equipped, you only have to provide the destination country’s air navigation service provider (ANSP) with documentation that shows this. However, the type of documentation can vary from country to country. The most common format is the Letter of Authorization (LOA), which you get from your civil aviation authority. Currently, China, Hong Kong, India, Singapore and Vietnam require an LOA.

According to the FAA, an LOA is required whenever one uses ADS-B outside the US unless otherwise noted. Based on this rather ambiguous regulation, the default assumption is, when operating outside the US, an LOA is required. You can obtain an LOA from the FAA. These were originally issued as an A353 authorization. However, in an effort to streamline the process, the FAA has replaced the A353 with the OpSpec/MSpec/LOA A153.

5. I already have an A353, do i now need an A153?

Rest assured, your current A353 LOA is still valid. If aircraft are added or removed from your LOA, the FAA will reissue your existing authorization as an A153. You may also send the FAA a request to reissue your A353 as an A153. No additional documentation is required to do this.

We Can Help – Contact Us

You can develop ADS-B procedures either as a supplement to your RVSM/International Operations Manual or as a standalone ADS-B document. This, along with supporting documentation, is then simply submitted to your Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or International Field Office (IFO).

AviationManuals makes applying for ADS-B approvals easy. Just complete a simple questionnaire and one of our experts will quickly assemble an appropriate and thorough application for you. Our support continues until the application package is approved, and our full-time staff are happy to help you gather any additional information that your FSDO or IFO may require.