I realize ADS-B is difficult to understand (or at least seems as such and deters proper understanding). But my question is this: Why are aircraft required by 2020 to implement ADS-B out? What information does this provide? Because on ADS-B in aircraft, I can see any aircraft who has an operating transponder. So it seems as if the radar/transponder system is already nicely paired with ADS-B. If you can get position and altitude from aircraft that don't already have this feature, what more could you possibly ask for?
Edit: Doing some research. Is it the case that ADS-B out broadcasts similar to VHF in that it doesn't need to first be relaid to a ground station, synthesized, and then rebroadcasted? Like a radio call it would go to an ATC receiver and directly to other aircraft?
Edit: Doing some research. Is it the case that ADS-B out broadcasts similar to VHF in that it doesn't need to first be relaid to a ground station, synthesized, and then rebroadcasted? Like a radio call it would go to an ATC receiver and directly to other aircraft?
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