How is the installation tested to ensure it meets the FAA Requirements?

Once the tailBeacon has been installed it is required that the equipment be tested to show it meets the FAA requirements for ADS-B OUT. An Operational Flight Evaluation (often referred to as a performance flight) must be performed and verified by the FAA.  Additionally, the installer may verify performance on the ground using an ADS-B [...]

What does the Operational Flight Evaluation consist of?

To summarize the requirements of AC20-165B (see links below):  The performance flight should take place for a minimum of 30 minutes from wheels up.  The aircraft should climb to 3,000’+ AGL and perform a minimum of 2 360 degree turns in each direction.  Banks in excess of 30 degrees and extreme maneuvers and attitudes should [...]

Will tailBeacon meet the U.S. ADS-B 2020 mandate?

Yes, tailBeacon will meet the 2020 ADS-B requirements when paired with an existing operational Mode C transponder.  tailBeacon meets or exceeds all required performance and environmental standards for use in the national airspace.   The certified tailBeacon will ship with 4 separate TSO certifications. UAT Transmitter:  TSO-C154c Class B1S WAAS GPS:  TSO-C145d Class Beta I Altitude [...]

Do the aircraft position/nav lights need to remain on during all operations?

Yes, the position lights need to remain switched on during all operations.  Removing power from the position lights also removes power from skyBeacon and/or tailBeacon.  According to 91.225(f) “Each person operating an aircraft equipped with ADS-B Out must operate this equipment in the transmit mode at all times.”

Does the TCAS limitation apply to my aircraft?

The only impacted aircraft are those with active (interrogating) TCAS systems.  These systems provide aural resolution advisories, and will generally be marked as TSO-C119.  TCAS systems are required for Part 135 operations on large turbine powered aircraft. Aircraft equipped with TIS or ADS-B In systems for traffic awareness are NOT impacted. Also not impacted are [...]

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