Broadcasting of a Digitally Coded List of Transponder Equipped Aircraft Scanned by FAA Ground Radars as a Means of Collision Avoidance, Navigation, Air Traffic Structuring, and Airfield Approach

An air traffic control system is proposed in which 1) all aircraft are equipped wit transponders, 2) FAA radar sites broadcast a digitally coded list of the identity, altitude, and coordinates of aircraft scanned, 3) each aircraft on receiving this list converts it into a PPI display with the blip of that aircraft branded and blips of off-altitude aircraft blanked, and 4) superimposed on this display are projected maps of airways appropriate to the particular radar and the aircraft altitude. This system could provide a fairly complete capability for air traffic control, structuring, navigation, and collision avoidance at a cost of about 3000 dollars per aircraft. It would replace most navigational and communication equipment now in use and could be operational in several years.