What this is
Congress is passing a law to make military and civilian aircraft broadcast their location and receive location data from other planes to prevent collisions.
The Airspace Location and Enhanced Risk Transparency (ALERT) Act is a new federal law being considered by Congress to make aircraft safer. This law focuses on a technology called ADS-B that helps planes and air traffic control systems see where aircraft are located in the sky.
ADS-B works in two ways: ADS-B Out lets an aircraft broadcast its location and other information to other planes and ground control. ADS-B In lets an aircraft receive location data from nearby planes. Together, these tools help pilots and air traffic controllers avoid mid-air collisions and keep our skies safer.
The ALERT Act sets specific requirements for when aircraft must use this technology. Military helicopters must use ADS-B Out as their standard practice, except in cases where it could affect military operations. By December 31, 2031, all military aircraft must be equipped with ADS-B In technology. Civilian aircraft that are currently required to have ADS-B Out must also add ADS-B In by the same deadline. The law also requires air traffic controllers to have limits on how long they work without a break, and it requires the FAA to notify pilots when their planes get dangerously close to each other.
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This law represents our community's commitment to aviation safety. By requiring these tracking and communication technologies, we make it safer for people to fly. The bill was placed on the Union Calendar in April 2026 and continues moving through Congress.
Key details
- Deadline for ADS-B In: December 31, 2031
- Technology required: ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast)
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Calendar placement: Union Calendar No. 528 (April 9, 2026)
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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Why it matters
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How this affects households
Under $30,000
This law doesn't directly affect your household budget since it focuses on aircraft equipment requirements. You may see slightly safer air travel over time.
$30,000-$60,000
No direct impact on your finances as this law targets aviation safety equipment. Any benefits would be safer flights if you travel by air.
$60,000-$100,000
This aviation safety law won't change your household costs. If you fly occasionally, you may experience safer air travel in the future.
Over $100,000
No direct financial impact from this aviation safety law. If you fly frequently for business or leisure, you may benefit from improved flight safety.
How to get involved
- 1Start with the snapshot above to know what this is in a glance.
- 2Read why it matters so you can speak to it in your own words.
- 3Weigh in using the button above.
When you call, you can say: “Hi, I saw "New Law Requires Planes to Share Location Data for Safety" on Community Exchange and want to know how to take part.”
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