Can ADS-B provide position information for Search and Rescue?

On Monday, February 20, 2017 at 8:54:08 PM UTC-8, Paul Villinski wrote:
That's not quite my question -- glider has Spot tracker -- it's more a question of whether, in addition to ADS-B's intended traffic awareness/avoidance function and the possible cockpit display of TIS-B and FIS-B, there is any significant added value in terms of Search and Rescue. Looking at whether that "maybe, sometimes" tips the scale in favor of the additional investment to equip. Obviously, not a reason on its own to equip.

Looking at the map Sarah pointed to in an earlier post, the FAA indicates that coverage even at 500' AGL is nearly continuous in the area NW of NYC where I typically fly. Looking at the area around Marfa, TX, where I sometimes fly, and where one would really like to be found if needed, there appears to be almost no coverage, even at 5000'. So, as has been pointed out, the answer largely hinges on where you are flying.

In short, I think the answer is "couldn't hurt."

On Monday, February 20, 2017 at 8:54:08 PM UTC-8, Paul Villinski wrote:

In short, I think the answer is "couldn't hurt."

Couldn't hurt, but if you have to choose between ADS-B Out and upgrading from Spot to InReach, the latter will likely prove far more beneficial (and better bang for your buck) if you are worried about being able to summon help to the right location when the time comes.

Andy Blackburn
9B