Senator Urges FAA to End ADS-B Exemptions in Class B Airspace

A new Senate bill aims to strengthen aviation safety by requiring all aircraft flying in Class B airspace near major U.S. metropolitan areas to be equipped with both ADS-B Out and ADS-B In technology. The bill, introduced by Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, chair of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, follows a deadly midair collision and two near-miss incidents near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

Currently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates ADS-B Out for aircraft in Class B airspace but does not require ADS-B In, which allows pilots to receive traffic data in real time. While many aircraft voluntarily use ADS-B In on cockpit screens or portable devices, no federal rule enforces its use.

The Army Black Hawk helicopter involved in the January 29 collision with a PSA Airlines CRJ700 near DCA did not have its ADS-B Out system activated, highlighting a gap in current FAA policy. In response, the FAA immediately required all aircraft in the D.C. Class B airspace to activate ADS-B Out.

Senator Moran stated that the legislation is essential to ensure all aircraft in high-traffic areas like DCA transmit and receive accurate tracking data. He emphasized the need for full cooperation from the Army and FAA with the ongoing National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation and called for continued flight restrictions until the review is complete.

The proposed legislation underscores growing concern over airspace safety and the push for broader adoption of real-time aircraft tracking technology across U.S. skies.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ainonline.com