Flightaware - this looks like Big Brother to me.

[Sam Buchanan]

I have a PiAware receiver feeding data to FlightAware and as a perk for contributing to the FlightAware network I receive a complimentary Executive level FlightAware account. One feature of the account is having a text automatically generated from my ADS-B data and sent to my bride whenever N399SB takes off or lands.

I don't worry about "privacy" when I fly, I've been broadcasting APRS tracking data to the world for over ten years. When you consider everyone has a camera (and Facebook or YouTube account) it is practically impossible to be stealthy. I consider the public nature of my flight tracking to be a considerable enhancement to flight safety.

[flyinga]

"I can file an ASRS report anonymously and have some protection from reprisal."

Hi Turner,

Exactly how does this work?

[Toobuilder]

One thing to consider is that there is a growing segment of the non flying public that uses ADS-B tracking as a "hobby". This might sound like a good thing until you recognize that plenty of them are borderline conspiracy theorists. I had such an individual as a co worker. He jumped on the "tracking" bandwagon and every monday morning had to tell me about some new "covert government op" that he had unraveled. Just like all the youtube videos that "prove" the chemtrail nonsense, logic will not disuade them from their theories. In fact, it only seems to make them spiral deeper into fantasy land. And if you have seen the vitrol that spews from the mouths of some of these youtube narrators, it is very easy to imagine that given the chance to extract revenge, they would.

I have nothing to hide, but at the same time I'd rather not provide "proof" that I was anywhere at any time. When I want to be tracked on a long cross country, I turn on the Spot and send the link to a select group of friends. Beyond that, I'd like to keep my travel plans secret from the world.

[humptybump]

As more and more airplanes install ADSB, the benefits of APRS decrease. I have both but probably not for much longer.

[OkieDave]

Remember that the "B" in ADS-B stands for "Broadcast."

You can't exactly call it "Big Brother" when somebody listens to what you're actively broadcasting.

[BobTurner]

Originally Posted by flyinga

"I can file an ASRS report anonymously and have some protection from reprisal."

Hi Turner,

Exactly how does this work?

Different Turner, but I’ll answer.
When you send in an ASRS report it goes to NASA. They remove your identity before forwarding it to the FAA. Filing a report provides some protection from penalties if there is an FAA action anyway.

[Mel]

Originally Posted by OkieDave

Remember that the "B" in ADS-B stands for "Broadcast."
You can't exactly call it "Big Brother" when somebody listens to what you're actively broadcasting.

I think the point is that "Big Brother" is the one requiring that you Broadcast this information.

[flyinga]

Bob,

I've filed many ASRS reports and understand the process. My point was that you cannot FILE one anonymously.

[mturnerb]

Originally Posted by flyinga

Bob,

I've filed many ASRS reports and understand the process. My point was that you cannot FILE one anonymously.

Your report is separated from your personal information when submitted so in that sense it?s anonymous. You have to identify yourself in filing to gain the protection.

[rv7boy]

Originally Posted by humptybump

As more and more airplanes install ADSB, the benefits of APRS decrease. I have both but probably not for much longer.

Yeah, and I'm also wondering about the ancient ELT that's still required in my C172 which as of last September has an Appareo Stratus ESG (ADSB out). Granted, ELT's and ADSB transponders don't do the same thing, but really, in this world of ADSB, radar, cell phones and satellite imagery, is that 1970's vintage ELT still necessary?