A syndicate including AOPA UK has won a contract from SESAR to create and demonstrate a portable electronic conspicuity aid for general aviation which could retail for less than €1,000.
The syndicate involves the British ATC provider NATS – National Air Traffic Services – the German avionics company Funke, and the Edinburgh–based GA avionics manufacturer Trig. AOPA’s function in the syndicate is to carry out airborne trials of a Low Powered ADS–B Transponder (LPAT) made by FUNKE. It is expected that some 180 to 200 hours of flying tests will be required, and AOPA is planning a flight test program in conjunction with NATS. Tests will also involve a panel-mounted ‘LASE’ system manufactured by Trig. The aim is to provide GA with an electronic conspicuity system that was satisfy the requirements of all airspace at minimal cost and with no weight and balance considerations for aircraft.
