iFly GPS Forum

I'm trying to understand the ins and outs (no pun intended) for ADS-B and the offerings for experimentals. For a GA, VFR only pilot flying a homebuilt, what value is the 1090ES IN feature? The SkyguardTWX has it, the various NavWorx offerings don't but their website says they're adding it in the future? Value for me and those like me?

Old pilot is right. But keep in mind there are lots of 1090es aircraft like RVs and many other certified planes that elect to add the ADSB Out "ES or Extended Squitter" to their Mode S transponder like a Garmin 330, Trig, etc. These ADSB Out planes would be using the 1090es and they would not necessarily be "high altitude traffic" as many have service ceilings well below FL180. In my opinion, the FAA and some manufacturers messed this up for us.

With that said I think the 1090es "In" is very important for seeing traffic when more distant from the ground stations and especially at low altitudes. Remember if either you or the traffic is at a lower altitude, under 1400 AGL, the range from the ground station is reduce greatly. To get the maximum traffic, you'll want to be able to receive both 978 and 1090ES. I hope this helps.

I recently had a King 74 with ADS-B installed in my Warrior. You will not only receive traffic from other near ADS-B out equipped planes but will receive continuous traffic reports from local ADS-B transmitters. Based on my experience and other anedotal reports, you will receive improved services from ATC. Example: I contacted Potomac Approach supporting the Washington DC area intending to ask for my SFRA squawk code. I was given the squawk code immediately and less than ten seconds later, he reported radar contact. Heck, I never even gave him a position report. The avionics shop told me that many of their customers with ADS-B out told them that ATC was now clearing them through Class B when they asked.

Biggest advantage of 1090 over 978 is its acceptance outside US and its lower installation costs for pilots that already have an IFR GPS in the panel.