How to use ADS-B on the Skydio X10 Controller
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Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) is a surveillance technology that enables situational awareness of nearby crewed aircraft. Skydio X10 is equipped with an onboard ADS-B In receiver, which detects ADS-B Out signals broadcast by crewed aircraft. This allows the X10 Controller to display nearby air traffic in real-time and issue alerts when traffic enters a pilot-defined proximity.
ADS-B traffic awareness is required for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations from the controller. This capability supports waiver compliance by providing both visual and audible alerts when aircraft are nearby, helping you avoid conflicts and maintain a safe distance.
Use ADS-B to:
- Check the airspace before launching – View real-time positions of other aircraft on the map before flight
- Maintain situational awareness during flight – Monitor air traffic as it approaches your area of operation
- Respond to audible alerts –If a crewed aircraft enters your defined alerting range, take appropriate action (e.g., descend to a safe altitude)
ADS-B Alert Ranges
Use the adjustable alerting range to customize the detection sensitivity, where V is the vertical distance from the drone before the alert is triggered, and H is the horizontal distance.
When an aircraft enters your alert range, its icon will turn red and you will hear an audible alert through the controller speakers.
The default range is set to Small.
- Small - H: 0.5 NM; V: +/- 500 ft (152 m)
- Medium - H: 1 NM; V: +/- 500 ft (152 m)
- Large - H: 1.5 NM; V: +/- 500 ft (152 m)
When an aircraft enters the alert radius, a notification will appear on the controller:
| Aircraft icon |
Displays either a fixed wing aircraft or rotorcraft Shows the altitude relative to your drone Select this icon to view more flight details (e.g., vertical/horizontal speed, ground distance relative to your drone) |
| Visual notification | An alert appears in the top left of the screen and displays Incoming Aircraft |
|
Audible alert |
When an aircraft enters your alert radius, the X10 Controller will play an audible beep, along with a spoken “Traffic” Mute this alert within the notification, or mute all notifications using the Sound menu (within Global Settings) |
How to set alert ranges
Step 1 - Navigate to the Display menu
Located within Global Settings.
Step 2 - Select Air Traffic
Use this menu to configure your ADS-B alert range.
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