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AOPA Asks FAA to Block ADS-B Tracking for Fees
AOPA supports third-party use of ADS-B data only for optimizing ATC safety and efficiency

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association is urging the FAA to block the use of ADS-B tracking technology by third parties to assess fees based on aircraft movements—a practice the trade group says “raises many concerns, including violation of privacy, and violation of federal grant obligations by public airports.”

In a September 12 letter to FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker, AOPA president and CEO Mark Baker said the agency should prevent third-party use of ADS-B data for purposes other than optimizing ATC safety and efficiency. Baker alleged “that the practice of using automated processes to impose additional fees on pilots undermines the vital flight training industry and will further discourage pilots from equipping with ADS-B or cause pilots to cut back on flying.”