We’re excited to introduce our new dual-band receiver for better flight tracking in the United States. Our new dual-band receiver combines an ADS-B 1090 MHz and UAT 978 MHz receiver in one unit, making it easier to track even more aircraft in the US.
Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) signals broadcast on 1090 MHz are how we track the vast majority of flights on Flightradar24. Due to the volume of aircraft in the United States, Universal Access Transceiver (UAT) broadcasting on 978 MHz was developed as an alternative primarily for general aviation aircraft operating only below 18,000 feet. With more than 200,000 general aviation aircraft in the United States, the ability to track UAT-equipped aircraft with a single Flightradar24 receiver will grow our coverage of a large group of aircraft much more quickly.
How is this receiver different from the single-band Flightradar24 receiver?
The new dual-band receiver combines a 1090 MHz and 978 MHz receiver in the same unit, with connections for each of the required antennas. The only difference in the receiver kit is the inclusion of a second antenna. Each antenna is clearly marked for easy installation outside and connection to the receiver unit inside.
If you live in the United States and want to host a dual-band ADS-B/UAT receiver, please visit our application page to apply. Beginning the process is easy, just answer a few basic questions and our team will begin reviewing your application. Be sure to check the box under Optional questions that says you want to also host for UAT traffic.
If you live in the United States and already host a Flightradar24 receiver and would like to host a new dual-band receiver, please contact our support team with your receiver ID and your willingness to install a new dual-band receiver. Our team will assess your receiver location and make a determination if a dual-band receiver will improve UAT coverage in your area. Dual-band receivers are currently limited in supply, so it may not be possible to replace your receiver at this time.
If you live in the United States and you’re currently sharing data with Flightradar24 via a Raspberry Pi receiver and you would like to host a dual-band Flightradar24 receiver, please visit our application page and note your current receiver in the appropriate section.
As a Flightradar24 ADS-B/UAT receiver host, you’ll be contributing to the world’s largest ADS-B receiver network and improving flight tracking in your area. When hosting a dual-band receiver, you’ll need to place the ADS-B and UAT antennas outside with an unobstructed 360° field of view. You’ll also place a GPS antenna in an area with sufficient view to acquire a signal. The three antennas will connect to the receiver unit. The receiver unit needs power and an ethernet connection. From there you’re all set up and ready to start tracking flights!
As a receiver host, you’ll receive our Contributor subscription, which includes all the top tier Flightradar24 features.
Absolutely! We encourage all applications. If you don’t live in the US and having a receiver in your area will increase flight tracking coverage, we’ll send you our single-band ADS-B receiver kit. Installation is the same as the dual-band receiver, but with just one radio antenna.
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