To:  U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, Chairman
Senate Commerce Committee
Washington, DC 20515

To: U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member
Senate Commerce Committee
Washington, DC 20515

Subject: Request to Prohibit the Use of ADS-B Data for Billing Purposes

As U.S. pilots, we were encouraged—and in many cases required—to invest in Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology to enhance aviation safety. Emphasizing that ADS-B was developed strictly for safety purposes, the FAA assured pilots that this data would not be used even to initiate enforcement actions. However, we now find that third-party vendors, such as Vector Airport Systems, are using ADS-B data to track aircraft for billing purposes, including landing fees. This practice exceeds the intended scope of ADS-B and undermines trust in the system.

With over 664,000 certified pilots in the U.S., this issue has widespread implications. ADS-B was implemented to improve safety, not to serve as a financial tool. Using it for fee collection not only deviates from its intended purpose but also risks discouraging participation in safety-enhancing technologies. Pilots should not face unexpected financial burdens or privacy concerns from a system meant to improve airspace security.

Action Requested:
We, the undersigned, urge immediate action to prohibit the use of ADS-B data for billing purposes, and to include the support of the Pilot and Aircraft privacy Act (S.2175 and related amendments). This step is necessary to restore confidence in the system and ensure ADS-B remains dedicated solely to its original safety purpose.  

Sign this petition to protect the privacy and rights of the aviation community.