uAvionix has launched a new Pilot Awareness Website, the Pilot Awareness & Portable EC Hub, an online resource to explain Portable Electronic Conspicuity (EC) and how these solutions increase aircraft visibility to other drones and crewed aircraft.
The FAA’s proposed Part 108 rule for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations below 400’ AGL requires drones to be equipped with ADS-B In and to yield to crewed aircraft broadcasting ADS-B Out signals.
However, many types of aircraft, such as balloons, gliders, vintage planes, powered parachutes, ultralights, seaplanes, and agricultural aircraft, operate below 400 feet and cannot easily install a permanent ADS-B Out system. To address this, the FAA is introducing a new portable EC device for these aircraft.
uAvionix’s website shows how portable EC provides an immediate, proven solution. The device broadcasts ADS-B Out, allowing other aircraft, including drones equipped with ADS-B In, to detect and avoid it.
Portable ECs are low cost and quick to deploy. These compact, battery-powered units typically cost under $1,000, require no expensive airframe modifications, and can move between aircraft, making them ideal for owners of multiple aircraft.
EC devices are private and anonymous. They do not transmit a signal traceable to the aircraft, since avoiding mid-air collisions only requires awareness that an aircraft exists, not who it belongs to. The solution also helps ensure GA pilots maintain right-of-way in low altitude environments, as intended by Part 108.
uAvionix encourages every pilot to submit a public comment to the FAA to support the acceptance of portable ECs, as a recognized method extending proven safety benefits of ADS-B to all aviators and the right-of-way protection for GA pilots.
The company asks pilots to share this message with fellow pilots, flight schools, and online aviation groups to strengthen the community’s voice to the FAA.
