Garmin has introduced a new portable ADS-B and GPS receiver that displays aircraft attitude information along with mapping, traffic, and weather via the Garmin Pilot app. The new product "is an example of how we’re dedicated to expanding the capabilities of our existing ADS-B solutions," said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing.
The GDL 39 3D uses a dual-link ADS-B receiver to provide traffic, weather, and WAAS GPS data to Bluetooth-compatible iOS and Android devices. The Garmin Pilot app displays back-up attitude information and a moving map page with weather and traffic overlays in a split-screen mode.
The GDL 39 3D collects and stores available traffic and weather data in the vicinity, making the data available as soon as the display is turned on. The unit can simultaneously provide wireless data to two devices while hard-wired to a third. The Bluetooth capability enables a pilot "to continually receive important weather and traffic information whether in the air or on the ground," Garmin said.
Pilots receive subscription-free Flight Information Service-Broadcast (FIS-B) weather via the FAA’s 978 MHz UAT uplink. The weather information "is similar to the existing weather products available today by commercial satellite weather providers," said Olathe, Kan.-based Garmin.
The GDL 39 3D is available for $849, or bundled with an optional battery for $899. Included with purchase of the GDL 39 3D is a free trial of Garmin Pilot. The existing GDL 39 now sells for $599, or $649 with an optional battery.
Wolf said Garmin is committed to making the transition to ADS-B easier for pilots through its line of portable and certified ADS-B products and its ADS-B Academy website, where detailed product information and compatibility information can be found.
