The FLARM success story
When FLARM came onto the market in 2004, the system was a small revolution in sport and leisure flying. The developers from Switzerland had created a device that would prevent collisions by exchanging position data between aeroplanes - a milestone in the world of gliding, where collisions while circling together in thermals repeatedly led to tragic accidents. The compact device, barely larger than a packet of cigarettes, quickly became popular and spread far beyond the gliding scene. Soon motorised and microlight pilots were also using the system, and even rescue helicopters were equipped with FLARM. Today, over 60,000 devices are in use worldwide.
Farewell to the Classic series
After more than twenty years of operation, FLARM is now drawing a line under the oldest generations of devices. As the company announced on its website, official support for all Classic devices will end on 30 September 2026 and no more software updates, technical support or new obstacle databases will be offered from 1 October. The reason for this is the outdated technical basis of the devices. Memory, computing power and radio modules date back to a time when the demands placed on electronic systems were significantly lower than they are today. Spare parts are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain and many modern functions can simply no longer be implemented on the old hardware.
What this means for pilots
Even though support is coming to an end, the Classic devices can still be used. From software version 7.40, the collision warning functions will continue to work reliably, but without further updates. This means that no more safety-relevant bug fixes, new data or improvements can be installed. FLARM itself emphasises that there is no immediate pressure to act as long as the system remains stable in your own aircraft. Nevertheless, the manufacturer recommends switching to one of the modern PowerFLARM variants in the medium term in order to be prepared for future developments.
Why action is being taken now
The decision comes at a time when the requirements for electronic visibility („electronic conspicuity“) in aviation are changing significantly. Today, modern systems must be able to receive and process not only FLARM signals, but also Mode S and ADS-B transponder data. This is particularly relevant for mixed airspace, where gliders, microlights and motorised aircraft fly together. In addition, digitalisation and networking are advancing rapidly in aviation: current devices offer interfaces to mobile devices, extensive obstacle databases and integrated traffic displays. It therefore makes little economic sense for manufacturers to continue maintaining old systems if the underlying hardware no longer supports the modern software architecture.
Opportunities for the changeover
To make it easier to switch to the latest generation of devices, FLARM and its German sales partner Ülis Segelflugbedarf are offering an exchange promotion. Pilots who trade in their fully functional Classic device when purchasing a new PowerFLARM Flex or PowerFLARM Flex Pure will receive a discount of up to 250 euros. These new devices have significantly enhanced functions: In addition to greater range and improved collision prediction, they can also analyse signals from transponders and ADS-B receivers. They can also be configured via WLAN and are designed for future software upgrades.
Recommendations for clubs and private pilots
For operators, clubs and owners of older aircraft, it is advisable to develop a clear strategy now. This includes an inventory of existing equipment, a risk analysis with regard to missing safety updates and early budget planning for replacement purchases. For gliding clubs in particular, a coordinated collective order or a joint retrofit plan can bring financial benefits. It should also be checked which interfaces a future device should fulfil - such as integration with on-board avionics, tablets or navigation software.
Outlook
With the end of Classic Support, FLARM marks the end of an era that has had a lasting impact on the safety culture in general aviation. At the same time, this step is a signal to align the technical basis of collision warning systems for the next decade. Those who plan early will benefit from greater safety, better networking and a technology that can survive in an increasingly digitalised airspace. For pilots, this means saying goodbye to the classics - and setting course for the future of electronic visibility.
Source references:
Aerocourier
