GPS & ADS-B buying help

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ADS-B In and ADS-B Out?

ADS-B Out is the certified signal your aircraft transmits so air traffic control and other aircraft can see your position, and it is what the FAA requires in regulated airspace. ADS-B In is the free weather and traffic data your receiver and EFB display. Portable receivers provide ADS-B In only.

Does a portable GPS or ADS-B receiver make me ADS-B compliant?

No. A portable receiver provides ADS-B In, which is the weather and traffic you receive. Regulatory compliance requires ADS-B Out, the certified equipment that transmits your aircraft position. Meeting the mandate needs installed, certified hardware such as a uAvionix skyBeacon or tailBeacon, not a portable receiver.

Is ADS-B weather and traffic subscription-free?

Yes. The FAA broadcasts FIS-B weather and traffic over the ADS-B network at no cost, so any portable ADS-B In receiver displays it free with no subscription. SiriusXM satellite weather is different: it offers broader coverage and faster updates but requires a paid SiriusXM Aviation subscription.

Which EFB apps work with portable ADS-B receivers?

Most portable receivers output the standard GDL-90 data format, so they work with major electronic flight bag apps including ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, FltPlan Go, FlyQ, and iFly. Garmin GDL receivers pair with Garmin Pilot and ForeFlight, while the Appareo Stratus 4 is a longtime favorite among ForeFlight users.

Do I need an internal GPS receiver if my iPad already has GPS?

Often yes. Wi-Fi-only iPads have no built-in GPS at all, and the GPS in cellular models can be less accurate and reliable in flight. An aviation GPS receiver delivers a stronger, more consistent position source and can feed several devices at once, which is why many pilots add one.

What is the difference between the Garmin GDL 50 and GDL 52?

Both are portable ADS-B In receivers with traffic, FAA weather, and a built-in AHRS for backup attitude. The key difference is satellite weather: the GDL 52 adds a SiriusXM receiver for broader, faster weather on a paid subscription, while the GDL 50 relies on free FAA FIS-B weather only. See our Stratus 4 vs GDL 50 guide for context.