Collisions in the air: an underestimated risk
Statistically speaking, collisions in the air are rare, especially in commercial aviation. But in general aviation (GA), they remain one of the most dangerous risks. The figures for EASA Member States speak a clear language:
- Annual average Six fatal collisions in the air
- Round 13 fatalities per year
These incidents show that, despite good flight training and tried and tested procedures such as "see and avoid", further protective mechanisms are necessary. The "see and avoid" principle quickly reaches its limits, especially in dense air traffic or restricted visibility. This is precisely where ADS-L to.
What is ADS-L?
ADS-L stands for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Light and is a simplified, cost-efficient version of the well-known ADS-B system. While ADS-B is primarily used in commercial aviation, ADS-L has been specially developed for the commercial aviation industry. Needs of general aviation developed. The technology enables the electronic transmission and recognition of flight data such as:
- Position
- Height
- speed
This makes aircraft electronically visible to other participants in the airspace. This increases the so-called Situational awarenessin other words, the awareness of one's own and the surrounding aircraft movements. ADS-L is also designed for use in the future U-Space airspaces optimised in which manned and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) should coexist safely.
How does ADS-L work in practice?
ADS-L enables pilots to see information about other aircraft directly on their displays. Similar to collision warning systems such as FLARM The system displays the location of other aircraft at an early stage, enabling potential conflicts to be recognised and avoided in good time.
Some central functions of ADS-L:
✔ Early warning when other aircraft are approaching
✔ Collision detection and avoidance suggestions
✔ Cost-efficient retrofitting for smaller aircraft
Numerous manufacturers, including FLARMintegrate ADS-L into their systems. For example, it will be available in the PowerFLARM series with an update and will work seamlessly with existing collision warning systems.
Why is ADS-L so important for general aviation?
The introduction of ADS-L is not only a technological innovation, but also a decisive safety measure. Particularly in general aviation, which is often travelling in uncontrolled airspace, ADS-L offers the following advantages:
- Improved security: Electronic visibility minimises the risk of collisions.
- Cost efficiency: Compared to ADS-B, ADS-L is specially tailored to small aircraft and private pilots and can be retrofitted at low cost.
- Integration with drones: ADS-L enables the safe coexistence of manned and unmanned aircraft in U-Space airspace.
ADS-L in the context of the EASA "iConspicuity" initiative
EASA has further developed the concept of electronic visibility under the title "iConspicuity". The aim is for as many aircraft as possible - from sports aircraft to drones - to be electronically visible. The current issue of "Sunny Swift" provides practical tips on using ADS-L and explains how pilots can integrate the system into their flight planning.
Conclusion: An important step towards greater safety
ADS-L is a significant advance for general aviation. It offers an affordable option for electronic visibility and helps to avoid collisions. EASA recommends that all general aviation pilots familiarise themselves with the possibilities of ADS-L and equip their aircraft accordingly.
With the integration of systems such as FLARM and the support of EASA, ADS-L will become an indispensable part of general aviation in the coming years. See and be seen - for maximum safety in the air.
Source references:
Staysafe.aero