First Swiss ADS-B ground station in test operation
After three years of preparation, the ADS-B Vision Switzerland project is now in operational test mode. The project was launched by the Aero Club of Switzerland AeCS, in close cooperation with the FOCA and private sponsors.
The vision: traffic information and weather data should reach the cockpit free of charge and in real time via ground stations using the ADS-B UAT band (978 MHz). This FIS-B and TIS-B data can be received with commercially available mobile receivers or modern avionics.
The first ground station at the Falkenfluh site (BE) is now in test operation and is initially transmitting METAR, TAF, weather radar and traffic. A corresponding NOTAM has been published. The further test expansion plans five additional stations to ensure nationwide reception in Switzerland. The data quality will be gradually improved and winds aloft and much more will be transmitted at a later date.
ADS-B Vision Switzerland offers Switzerland, as a compact airspace, the opportunity to play a pioneering role internationally. This project creates the unique opportunity to bring all traffic - whether ADS-B, Mode-S, Mode-C, FLARM, SafeSky or ADS-L - into the cockpit free of charge via a single technology: from airliners to drone operators. According to initiator Eugen Stieger, AeCS Head of Finance and Sponsorship, this is one of the most significant advances in years - uncomplicated and without bureaucracy - for more safety in Swiss airspace.
More detailed information can be found on the project website www.ads-b.ch
Cover picture: With seven ground stations at 1000ft AGL, comprehensive coverage of the airspace in Switzerland would be possible.