Garmin has received FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) authorization and Approved Model List Supplemental Type Certificate (AML STC) approval for the GDL 88 series, a dual-link ADS-B solution for certified aircraft.
With these certifications, the GDL 88 is approved for installation on most Part 23 fixed-wing aircraft, and is available immediately starting at $3,995.
The GDL 88 provides an ADS-B rule-compliant solution for aircraft operating in the U.S. and below 18,000 feet. The GDL 88 also brings the added benefit of access to advanced traffic information and subscription-free weather for aircraft flying at any altitude, Garmin officials said.
The dual-link capability allows the GDL 88 to receive both the 978 MHz UAT and 1090 MHz frequency bands to provide the most comprehensive level of traffic situational awareness, company officials said. Advanced traffic awareness features include TargetTrend relative motion technology, which helps the pilot visualize the trend of the traffic threats as it relates to their aircraft, and SURF technology, which detects other aircraft or ground vehicles on runways and taxiways that may pose a threat while taxiing or on approach, Garmin officials noted.
Patent-pending technology allows the GDL 88 to be compatible with a wide range of general aviation transponders to synchronize squawk code and ident, eliminating the need to install a dedicated UAT control panel. For aircraft owners who do not already have a compatible WAAS GPS position source on board their aircraft, the GDL 88 is available with an optional built-in WAAS GPS receiver. The GDL 88 is also available with optional antenna diversity, to enhance detection of traffic both above and below the aircraft while working to minimize blind spots caused by the wings or fuselage during aircraft maneuvering.
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I have the following equipment: GNS480, GMX200, GTX330 transponder.
Will the GDL88 play with all of these?
I understand from an Aspen Avionics letter that Garmin will not share the GDL-88 interface specs so this unit’s data can not display on the Aspen panels. If this is the case I must pass on the GDL-88 for something more compatible with my avionics.