Electronic Conspicuity Rebate Scheme coming to an end
Image courtesy CAA
Pilots have until 31st March 2024 to apply for the Electronic Conspicuity Rebate scheme, which aims to encourage wider use of the technology used in light aircraft.
The devices can help improve pilot awareness of other aircraft such as planes, gliders, helicopters and drones to avoid collisions and increase airspace safety.
Eligible pilots can claim 50% of the cost (capped at a £250 rebate) of an Electronic Conspicuity device through the scheme.
So far, the Department for Transport (DfT) funded programme, administered by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, has given out almost £1.8 million in funding to thousands of pilots since its launch in late 2020.
Jon Round, Head of Airspace, Aerodromes and Air Traffic Management at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: "The Electronic Conspicuity Rebate Scheme has been crucial in advancing aviation safety in light aircraft.
"These devices have been proven to help pilots to mitigate the risk of mid-air collisions, as well as being a key enabler for the safe and efficient integration of airspace users.
"We’ve seen thousands of pilots take advantage of the scheme and with limited time left, we urge eligible pilots to apply to the rebate scheme to benefit from the contribution towards such devices, enhancing their situational awareness in the skies."
As well as enhancing airspace safety, Electronic Conspicuity is vital to enabling the safe and efficient integration of airspace for all airspace users, one of the objectives of the regulator's Airspace Modernisation Strategy.
Electronic Conspicuity is an umbrella term for the technology that can help General Aviation pilots, drone operators and air traffic services be more aware of what is flying in surrounding airspace.
It includes the devices fitted to aircraft and unmanned systems that send out position information, and the support infrastructure on the ground to help them work together.
A recent report published by the UK Civil Aviation Authority looked at the importance of Electronic Conspicuity devices, and how Human Factors affect the safe use of the technology. The findings of the report will be used alongside new research the regulator has commissioned to set a future standard for the use of Electronic Conspicuity equipment.
