OnAirDecode UAT with an SDR
UAT 978 MHz: ADS-B, FIS-B weather and TIS-B relay.
- Group
- Aviation
- In the mode list
- Aircraft, 978 MHz
What UAT is
UAT on 978 MHz: ADS-B position and identity reports, FIS-B weather text products and TIS-B traffic relay (DO-282). Typical 1 Msps capture. Receive only.
Frequencies and settings
OnAir takes any frequency you type; the numbers above are the mode's starting point and the range its table describes. In the app the shortcut label is Aircraft, 978 MHz.
What OnAir shows
UAT on 978 MHz: ADS-B position and identity reports, FIS-B weather text products and TIS-B traffic relay (DO-282). Typical 1 Msps capture. Receive only.
Limits and what it was checked with
Checked with generated signals and impairments; recordings of real signals welcome.
Which radio you need
Any radio that tunes this range works. An RTL-SDR covers roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz, and every other radio in the radio guide reaches it too. Antenna height and a clear view of the transmitter matter most.
Receiving and the law
Questions about UAT
Can I decode UAT with an RTL-SDR?
Usually yes for narrowband signals, as an RTL-SDR tunes roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz at up to about 2.4 Msps. Wide signals such as TV channels need a faster radio, and OnAir says next to the source what the selected radio can do.
Is it legal to receive UAT?
Receiving aircraft broadcasts is legal in many countries, but some restrict listening to or using what you hear. OnAir is a receiver. Check the rules where you live.
Can I try UAT in OnAir without a radio?
Yes. Most modes include a built-in synthetic test signal, so you can open the screen and try the controls before you own a radio.