Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) is an aircraft surveillance system.

Aircraft receive accurate and precise location data from a satellite constellation and then broadcast this information through a transponder. This data can then be used by air traffic management services to maintain aircraft separation.

Details of the confirmed ADS-B mandate

As part of the New Southern Sky (NSS) programme, Airways is moving to Automatic Dependent Surveillance - Broadcast (ADS-B). The current secondary radar service will be replaced by ADS-B as the main source of surveillance information for separation of aircraft in controlled airspace.

The CAA rule change to make ADS-B mandatory for all aircraft in all controlled airspace has now been confirmed. All aircraft operating in controlled airspace beyond 31 December 2022 must transmit ADS-B data that meets minimum performance requirements.

For more information on what is required to comply with the confirmed mandate see ADS-B in New Zealand(external link)  or the ADS-B website(external link).

Learn more about equipping with ADS-B

ADS-B equipment and performance standards in CAA Notice 91.258 [PDF 1.3 MB]

How to get ADS-B installed on your aircraft(external link)

The benefits of ADS-B(external link)

For more information about installing ADS-B, or about ADS-B equipment, contact your LAME or airworthiness@caa.govt.nz

For information about the ADS-B policy in controlled airspace, email adsb@caa.govt.nz