NavCanada ADS-B Consultation
Action Required
Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association of Canada (HPAC)
Action Required – NavCanada ADS-B Consultation (Closes Feb 20)
NavCanada is currently conducting a consultation on expanding ADS-B transponder requirements, which can potentially affect hang gliders and paragliders flying in class E airspace.
Please review the background below, and then fill out their survey linked at the end.
What’s changing
Powered aircraft use ADS-B transponders to report their real-time position to air traffic controllers and to each other to reduce the risk of collisions.
Since 2024, ADS-B has been mandatory in upper controlled airspace (Class A and B above 12,500 ft). NavCanada is now proposing to expand this mandate into lower-level controlled airspace, including Class E airspace, where transponders are currently not required and where we are permitted to fly after completing the HAGAR exam.
Why this matters to us
ADS-B transponders are designed for permanent installation on powered aircraft. Even if installation were permitted on hang gliders or paragliders, the cost would be prohibitive (typically thousands of dollars).
At present, we are exempt from transponder requirements under:
However, these exemptions were established when transponder mandates did not apply to the airspace we typically use. That context is changing.
Globally, regulators are increasingly moving toward requiring some form of surveillance, or “electronic conspicuity” (EC), in lower-level airspace to reduce mid-air collisions and integrate commercial unmanned aircraft safely.
For example, in the United States, the FAA has proposed giving drones the right of way over manned aircraft not equipped with ADS-B or approved EC, and this 2024 USDOT whitepaper considers mandating ADS-B on all aircraft as one possible future pathway.
These pressures are not going away.
What we need going forward
It is critical that hang gliders and paragliders are properly represented within whatever surveillance or EC framework NavCanada develops.
If ADS-B becomes required in Class E airspace, NavCanada must also approve portable, lightweight, and affordable alternatives that are realistic for our aircraft.
Examples of technologies used elsewhere include:
- FLARM
- SafeSky (Europe-based EC app)
Our objective is not to resist modernization; it is to ensure that any framework accommodates unpowered, weight-shift aircraft in a practical way.
What you can do
Please complete the NavCanada survey before February 20.
All questions are optional. The final question allows free-form comments. This is your opportunity to clearly express concerns.
When responding, please identify yourself appropriately (hang glider pilot, paraglider pilot, instructor, school operator, etc.).
Your individual submissions matter. They strengthen HPAC’s position when we engage directly with NavCanada and Transport Canada.
HPAC will formally reach out to both agencies, and your input during this consultation helps ensure our community is heard.
What about paramotors, powered hang gliders, and trikes?
These aircraft are classified as ultra-light aeroplanes, and are currently exempt from transponder requirements under CAR 605.01(1)(a).
If you operate these aircraft, consider coordinating with:
Both organizations are actively engaged in ADS-B policy discussions.
Resources
USDOT 2024 Electronic Conspicuity whitepaper