tailBeacon is eligible for install on any suitable experimental aircraft that routinely flies below FL180. Light Sport aircraft are also eligible for installation but require a Letter of Authorization from the manufacturer. Certified aircraft require the TSO certified version of tailBeacon.
The STC is for the Cessna 172. The tail installation satisfies FAA requirements and will enable subsequent tailBeacon installations to be performed on any “suitable aircraft” without STC as a minor alteration. A suitable aircraft supports the installation of the tailBeacon without airframe modification. See mounting template for a 1:1 scale drawing to help you [...]
The tailBeacon installation is considered a minor alteration and can be approved by the installer for most aircraft. At this time a form 337 should be completed and submitted along with the proper logbook entries. Please note, the installer must determine if the conditions are appropriate for installation on a specific aircraft. Additional guidance for [...]
tailBeacon weighs 80grams/2.9oz/0.176lbs including 6" of 22AWG. The rebalancing of the rudder will depend on the weight difference between the existing light and the tailBeacon. In many cases, the weight difference is less than 0.5oz
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 [...]
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 [...]
No, tailBeacon is a rear position light. The color is aviation White. There is no anti-collision or strobe capability.
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 [...]
A skyBeacon/tailBeacon can legally be used to enter and exit United States airspace. Pilots must also be familiar with and comply with the destination country's ADS-B rules if applicable. At this time Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas do not have any ADS-B requirements for light aircraft.
For certified aircraft, the skyBeacon and tailBeacon TSO units must at the very least be installed by an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic (A&P) and the installation must be reviewed and approved (signed off) by an IA. Part 145 shops and facilities with avionics expertise will optimize timely installation and downtime in addition to reducing overall [...]