uAvionix has introduced skyAlert, a rugged, wearable ADS-B receiver purpose-built for professional UAS pilots and their visual observers.
Designed for real-world field operations, skyAlert audibly warns users of approaching ADS-B-equipped aircraft, enhancing both airspace awareness and safety during complex drone missions. The device also provides real-time audible alerts when manned aircraft enter a configurable proximity zone, allowing drone operators and observers to stay focused on the drone and payload without needing to look away or consult a display.
Field-tested and field-ready, skyAlert addresses the growing demand for heightened safety in low-altitude drone missions—particularly those conducted near obstacles such as power lines, towers, and buildings. With a user-configurable audible warning system, the device keeps operators and observers “heads-up,” avoiding the need to divert attention from critical flight tasks.
Operators can fine-tune skyAlert’s detection parameters by setting specific altitude and range thresholds. This user-defined alert zone ensures that warnings are delivered only when necessary, minimizing nuisance alerts and providing tailored situational awareness—ideal for missions like infrastructure inspections, agricultural spraying, or construction monitoring.
In addition to audible alerts, skyAlert integrates with a wide range of Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications using the GDL-90 protocol. This allows the visual observer or pilot to monitor nearby ADS-B aircraft on a mobile device, offering a secondary layer of safety and tactical awareness. Compatible EFBs include ForeFlight, SkyDemon, FlyQ, OzRunways, AvPlan, and more.
Christian Ramsey, Chief Commercial Officer at uAvionix, said, “skyAlert exemplifies uAvionix’s unwavering dedication to innovation in aviation safety. By providing immediate audible warnings of nearby ADS-B equipped aircraft, SkyAlert empowers UAS operators and visual observers to remain focused and proactive in maintaining flight safety and compliance.”
SkyAlert is purpose-built for high-risk, mission-critical drone operations where maintaining situational awareness is essential. It enhances safety during utility and infrastructure inspections by helping operators detect nearby helicopters while flying close to power lines, bridges, rooftops, or construction sites. In agricultural settings, it serves as a vital tool for avoiding conflicts between Uncrewed Aerial Applicator Systems (UAAS) and low-flying crop-dusting aircraft. For public safety and emergency response missions—such as Drone as First Responder (DFR) deployments, wildfire monitoring, or disaster response—SkyAlert provides crucial airspace awareness in environments where both crewed and uncrewed aircraft are operating simultaneously.
Key Features of skyAlert
- Wearable, self-contained ADS-B receiver optimized for UAS field operations
- Custom alert parameters (altitude and range) tailored to mission needs
- Audible proximity alerts to help maintain focus on drone and airspace
- Dual-band ADS-B support (1090 MHz and 978 MHz) for comprehensive traffic coverage
- GDL-90 protocol compatibility for real-time EFB traffic visualization
- 12-hour battery life, rechargeable via USB-C
- Does not require cellular or internet connectivity
- Lightweight (200g) and compact (57x82x30 mm) design
- Includes RAM™ mount for belt or shoulder clip attachment
SkyAlert is now available for pre-order and is expected to begin shipping in July 2025.
Visit uAvionix at Booth 3033 at AUVSI Xponential 2025, May 19-22 in Houston, Texas for live demonstrations, or contact uAvionix directly for purchasing and technical inquiries.
