FAA reaches NextGen milestone with ADS-B rule

The long-awaited final rule on the specifications of the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast Out (ADS-B out was released by the Federal Aviation Administration with an expected equipage costs of between USD2 and USD6.2 billion. The rule clears the way for manufacturers to begin making the equipment. If ultimately fielded, the new system increases cockpit situational awareness and make pilots less dependent on air traffic controllers that has been on the National Transportation Safety Board 'Most Wanted' list for years.