Gliders
Disclaimer
The technological recommendation presents solutions meeting the requirements of the forthcoming mandate, as currently foreseen. If installed voluntarily before mandate’s entry into force, these solutions are eligible for financial support under the Special Financing scheme (BV87b). Aircraft owners and pilots who wish to benefit from this funding are encouraged to submit an application by November 30, 2026, at the latest. The request for financial support for the installation of devices to fulfil the forthcoming mandate will not be possible after this date.
Please be aware that the mandate remains subject to change until its publication: the technological recommendation reflects its current status.
Under the forthcoming mandate, gliders will need to be equipped with a Mode S transponder. If the transponder already supports ADS-B Out, no further action is expected to be needed; otherwise it will need to be upgraded to ADS-B Out, or an ADS-L Out device installed. The FOCA recommends to upgrade existing Mode S transponder to ADS-B Out.
There are thousands of FLARM installations in gliders. This is a great solution for collision awareness among gliders.
Technology recommendation:
1. FLARM in connection with ADS-L In/Out or with ADS-B Out
FLARM is ideal for use among gliders. To improve interoperability with motor-powered aircraft, the FOCA recommends using a FLARM device with the ability to receive ADS-B and Mode S signals. For best interoperability, the device should be combined with either ADS‑B Out or ADS-L In/Out.
If ADS-L In/Out is used as a standalone device without FLARM, there may be disadvantages for collision awareness with other gliders (e.g. in thermals). This is because the collision awareness protocols in apps like ForeFlight, SkyDemon etc. are not built for gliders.
ADS-B Out is recommended due to the inherent benefits of a permanent installation (e.g. known reliability, range, diversity). It ensures interoperability with traffic warning systems in motor‑-powered aircraft.