uAvionix tailBeacon Gets TSO Approval

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • uAvionix has received TSO authorization for its tailBeacon, an ADS-B Out system designed as a last-minute solution for GA operators to meet the Jan. 1, 2020, mandate.
  • The tailBeacon is a plug-and-play unit that replaces the aircraft's rear position light, integrating an ADS-B transponder, GPS, barometric altimeter, and the position light itself.
  • The company is working on Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approvals for specific aircraft types and has expanded production and established a network of over 600 trained installers nationwide.
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uAvionix has received technical standard order (TSO) authorization for its tailBeacon ADS-B Out system that could offer a last-minute solution for GA operators who haven’t yet complied with the Jan. 1, 2020, mandate. The tailBeacon could replace the rear position light on dozens of light aircraft types and includes an integrated complying GPS, barometric altitude sensor, ADS-B transponder and the position light that it replaces. It’s designed as a plug-and-play replacement for the existing position light using existing wiring and takes a short time to install.

The next regulatory step is to get Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for specific aircraft types and the company says the first one is already in the works.  “We have expanded our production footprint in Montana and expect to be delivering the product with plenty of margin for our customers to meet the year-end deadline,” the company told AVweb in an email. “In addition, we now have a qualified installer network of over 600 A&P IAs nationwide who have been specifically trained on its installation.” 

Russ Niles

Russ Niles is Editor-in-Chief of AVweb. He has been a pilot for 30 years and joined AVweb 22 years ago. He and his wife Marni live in southern British Columbia where they also operate a small winery.
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