AOPA-backed ADS-B privacy bill highlighted in House hearing

In his testimony, Reliable Robotics CEO Robert Rose urged Congress to encourage broader adoption of ADS-B Out, suggesting measures such as reinstating the ADS-B Out rebate program that was in place prior to the 2020 ADS-B Out mandate. Rose added that PAPA would help improve adoption as well.

During an exchange with Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.)—an instrument-rated private pilot and the sponsor of H.R.4146 (PAPA)—both underscored the importance of ensuring ADS-B data is used solely for its intended purpose: air traffic safety and airspace efficiency.

“If ADS-B is being used by, I’ll say, bad actors to monetize airport landing fees, that’s going to discourage folks from employing ADS-B or adopting ADS-B in the first place or turning it off,” said Onder.

“I don’t think it should be used for fee collections. It should be used primarily for safety and collision avoidance and situational awareness in the cockpit. I think it’s very unfortunate the conversation has shifted more toward fee collections,” said Rose.

AOPA President Darren Pleasance underscored the importance of using ADS-B collision avoidance technology for its intended purpose and not for airport economics.

“Representative Onder’s legislation, the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act, would enhance safety and privacy by prohibiting the use of ADS-B collision avoidance technology for fee collection. When the legislation becomes law, airports will still be able to collect fees—they just couldn’t use this safety technology to do so. States are also considering legislation to prohibit this practice, but Representative Onder’s bill would establish a national policy so as to avoid a patchwork of laws across the country,” said Pleasance.

Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) has introduced a companion bill, S.2175, in the Senate.