The FAA has granted an approved model list-supplemental type certificate (AML-STC) for FreeFlight Systems’ Datalink ADS-B system in more than 400 Part 23 aircraft models, including Beechcraft, Cessna, Cirrus, Piper, and other types.
FreeFlight is offering a $2,500 trade-in for aircraft owners that want to upgrade their FreeFlight Rangr system to the new Datalink ADS-B. The company plans to obtain STCs for Part 25 aircraft early this year.
Weighing less than two pounds, the Datalink ADS-B transceivers have built-in Wi-Fi for sharing ADS-B In information with panel displays and portable devices. ADS-B In capabilities include receiving free Flight Information Services-Broadcast (FIS-B) weather and Traffic Information Services-Broadcast (TIS-B), as well as information for surveillance applications. The transceivers can interface with TCAS and TAS (traffic systems) and support Ethernet, RS-232, and Arinc 429 interfaces.
For larger aircraft and those operating outside the U.S., the new units are capable of diversity functionality, allowing for top- and bottom-mounted antennas that facilitate better reception, including Aireon space-based ADS-B in areas without ADS-B ground stations.