On Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 6:40:27 AM UTC-7, John Carlyle wrote:
Regarding Mike Schumann's comment predicting UAVs will be equipped with UAT, at least one company offering new equipment aimed at UAVs doesn't agree.. Check out the new offerings from Sagetech he http://www.sagetechcorp.com/unmanned.../#.VSZ9SPDNrkc

As you can see, they offer Mode S, Mode S with ADS-B Out and Mode S with ADS-B Out and GPS, but there is no mention of UAT. Mike, you may want to call them and explain what a huge mistake they're making.

-John, Q3


Also it would be good to be more clear about terminology. UAV, while a generic term, is often used to describe military remotely piloted aircraft and/or autonomous vehicles. Typically you'll find these in the US in MOAs or Restricted areas at a wide variety of speeds and altitudes under reasonably controlled conditions. At least one vendor is using 1090ES on these aircraft.. The main purpose is to make UAVs visible to ATC radar so 1090ES is likely a better choice since it will be new installations where 1090ES gives transponder as well as GP position capability. I seriously doubt that UAT would be viewed as suitable.

Personal drones are increasingly numerous and fly today all over the US, generally below 400' if they're legal - occasionally above. They are probably of the greatest risk to gliders if they fly near glider airports. At $300 up to several thousand $, cost, size and power consumption are critical considerations for any traffic warning technology. It's my understanding that Flarm is in discussions with manufacturers of these.

As to commercial drones delivering packages for Amazon, I'd not worry too much about that yet. If and when it comes it will likely be of greater risk to your cat than to your glider. I'm not sure what technology Amazon wants to use, though cost, size and weight will likely be concerns. I suspect if/when autonomous flight is allowed it won't be allowed near airports or above 400'.

Andy