ATC
IG criticizes FAA action on ADS-B
In an October report titled “FAA faces significant risks in implementing the automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast program and realizing benefits,” th

In an October report titled “FAA faces significant risks in implementing the automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast program and realizing benefits,” the Department of Transportation’s Inspector General (IG) criticizes the FAA’s uncertainty on avionics costs and specifications, ground station contracting arrangements and program oversight, among other things.

“The greatest risks to successfully implementing ADS-B,” the IG stated, “are airspace users’ reluctance to purchase and install new avionics for their aircraft, and the FAA’s ability to define requirements for the more advanced capabilities.” While noting that the FAA’s cost analysis for U.S. user equipage ranged from $2.5 billion to $6.2 billion, the IG added that the agency’s opening mandate for ADS-B out merely replicates existing radar coverage and provides users with few new benefits.