If you’re looking for aerial photography, you might not think much about how the sky is managed. But knowing a little about ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast) can help you understand why choosing the right aerial photography provider matters. Step one is knowing that ADS-B is a system that helps track aircraft in the sky, making flying safer and more organized.

Maybe you’re planning to capture aerial shots of a construction site, a real estate marketing project, or a special event. If your shoot is near an airport or a busy city, air traffic rules might affect your plans. That’s why it’s important to hire a team that understands these rules and follows safety regulations. At Aerial Innovations Southeast, we make sure every aerial shoot is done legally and safely, so you don’t have to worry about the details.

What is ADS-B, and How Does It Work?

ADS-B is an advanced air traffic surveillance system that improves aircraft tracking. Unlike traditional radar, which relies on ground-based stations to detect aircraft, ADS-B uses GPS technology to broadcast an aircraft’s position, altitude, speed, and identification information in real time.​

This system consists of two main components:

• ADS-B Out: This transmits an aircraft’s position and other flight data to air traffic controllers and nearby aircraft. It is mandatory for most aircraft operating in controlled airspace.​
• ADS-B In: This allows aircraft equipped with the technology to receive live traffic and weather data, improving situational awareness.​

For commercial pilots, private aircraft, and air traffic controllers, ADS-B is a game-changer, offering more precise and continuous tracking than traditional radar systems. So how does this relate to aerial photography?​

Why ADS-B Matters for Aerial Photography Clients

If you’re hiring an aerial photography company, you want to be sure they understand and comply with airspace regulations. Here’s why ADS-B is relevant to your project:

1. Ensuring Safety in the Sky

Safety is the number one priority when flying aircraft or drones for aerial photography. ADS-B enhances air traffic awareness by providing real-time location data. This helps prevent mid-air conflicts and ensures that all flights—whether manned or unmanned—operate with a clear understanding of surrounding air traffic.​

For clients, this means peace of mind. If your project requires aerial photography near a busy airport, construction site, or city center, it’s important to work with a company that monitors airspace conditions and follows FAA safety protocols.

2. Compliance with FAA Regulations

In the U.S., the FAA requires ADS-B Out for aircraft operating in Class A, B, C, and certain Class E airspace. While most drones are not mandated to carry ADS-B Out, some airspace restrictions apply, and the FAA has introduced Remote ID, a system that works similarly to ADS-B by broadcasting a drone’s location and identification.​

At Aerial Innovations Southeast, we ensure that every flight is conducted legally. Our team follows all FAA regulations, obtains necessary permissions for restricted airspace, and stays updated on evolving air traffic management technologies like ADS-B and Remote ID.

3. Obtaining Flight Permits for Your Project

If your aerial photography project takes place in controlled airspace, such as near an airport or major metropolitan area, additional approvals may be required. Clients who are unfamiliar with aviation regulations often search for ADS-B to understand how these requirements impact their projects.

At Aerial Innovations Southeast, we handle all airspace authorization processes on your behalf. We ensure that every shoot is legally cleared and coordinate with local air traffic control when necessary, so you don’t have to navigate the complexities of FAA regulations yourself.

How We Ensure Safe and Legal Flights

When you work with us, you get a team that puts safety and compliance first. Here’s what we do to make sure our flights follow all rules:

Checking the Airspace Before We Fly

Before every flight, we check FAA maps, ADS-B tracking tools, and airspace monitoring apps to see if there are any restrictions. This helps us:

• Find out if we need permission to fly.
• See how many other aircraft are in the area.
• Plan safety measures to avoid conflicts with other flights.

Watching the Sky in Real-Time

Our team uses ADS-B In technology and drone monitoring tools to track air traffic while we fly. This lets us make quick adjustments if needed, keeping everything safe.

Talking to Air Traffic Control

For projects near airports or busy areas, we work directly with air traffic control (ATC). This coordination ensures we can fly without causing disruptions or breaking any regulations.

Keeping Clients Informed

We believe in transparency. If your project location has airspace restrictions, we’ll explain what’s needed, how long approvals might take, and whether we need to adjust the flight plan.

What You Need to Know When Booking Aerial Photography

If you’re planning an aerial photography project, here’s what to remember about ADS-B and airspace rules:

• You don’t need to worry about ADS-B yourself, but you should hire a photographer who understands it.
• Some locations require special permits, and getting approvals can take time.
• Safety is always the priority, and experienced aerial photographers use air traffic monitoring to avoid risks.
• ADS-B and Remote ID are the future of air traffic management, keeping the sky safe for both planes and drones.

At Aerial Innovations Southeast, we make sure your aerial photography is done safely, legally, and without hassle. If you have questions about airspace regulations or need expert aerial services, contact us. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on getting the perfect shots.

Frequently Asked Questions About ADS-B

What is ADS-B in aviation?

ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast) is a system that allows aircraft to automatically transmit their location, altitude, speed, and other flight data to air traffic controllers and nearby aircraft using GPS technology.

Where is ADS-B Out required?

ADS-B Out is required in most controlled airspace in the U.S., including Class A, B, and C airspace, as well as certain Class E airspace above 10,000 feet. It is also required in certain airspace around busy airports and inside designated airspace corridors.

When is ADS-B required?

ADS-B is required for all aircraft operating in controlled airspace where transponders are normally needed, including flights above 10,000 feet and within 30 nautical miles of major airports.

What are the ADS-B requirements?

The FAA requires aircraft flying in ADS-B mandated airspace to have an ADS-B Out transmitter that meets specific performance standards, continuously broadcasting their location and flight data.

When is ADS-B not required?

ADS-B is not required in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace, below 10,000 feet, and in remote areas where air traffic control services are not provided. Small drones also do not require ADS-B, though Remote ID regulations apply to most drone operations.

When is a transponder required?

A transponder is required in most controlled airspace, including Class A, B, and C airspace, within 30 nautical miles of major airports, and above 10,000 feet. Some aircraft operating in transponder-required airspace may also need to comply with ADS-B regulations.