More than 40,000 general aviation aircraft flying in the U.S. currently have ADS-B Out equipment installed, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) said yesterday. The FAA estimates that 100,000 to 160,000 general aviation aircraft will need to be equipped with ADS-B Out before the Jan. 1, 2020 deadline.

“We’re now just over two years out from the FAA compliance deadline,” said GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce. “As we move forward, knowing that date will not change, it is essential that those operators who haven’t yet [done so] make a plan for equipage to avoid having their aircraft grounded and losing its residual value.”

Since the FAA announced the mandate, general aviation manufacturers have worked to design, develop, certify and make available affordable ADS-B products. Some solutions for light general aviation aircraft cost as little as $1,200, though those for most business aircraft start at $25,000 and can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars for older types with legacy avionics.

“By choosing to equip now, operators are investing in their safety and ensuring they meet the 2020 deadline before installation lines grow long,” said Bunce. “We are very pleased with the continuous growth in equipage, and manufacturers will continue working with the FAA and operators to facilitate equipage as the deadline approaches.”