FAQ n.119358

Operators operating as general air traffic under instrument flight rules are required to equip their aircraft with Mode S transponders, in accordance with the SPI IR requirements by the following deadlines: 

Aircraft with a first CofA issued prior to 7 June 1995:

• Aircraft with a first CofA issued prior to 7 June 1995, have to be:
  • ELS capable prior to 7 December 2020

Aircraft with a first CofA issued on or after 7 June 1995:

• Aircraft with a MTOM of 5700 kg or less  and with a maximum cruising TAS 250 kts or less have to be: 
  • ELS capable prior to 7 December 2020
• Rotorcraft (e.g. helicopters) with a MTOM exceeding 5700 kg or with a maximum cruising TAS greater than 250 kts have to be:
  • ELS capable prior to 7 December 2020, 
    and 
  • ADS-B out capable prior to 7 December 2020 or 7 June 2023 (where there is a retrofit programme in place prior to 7 December 2020)
• Fixed wing aircraft (aeroplanes) with a MTOM exceeding 5700 kg or with a maximum cruising TAS greater than 250 kts have to be :
  • ELS capable prior to 7 December 2020, 
    and 
  • ADS-B out capable prior to 7 December 2020 or 7 June 2023 (where there is a retrofit programme in place prior to 7 December 2020) 
    and 
  • EHS capable prior to 7 December 2020 or 7 June 2023 (where there is a retrofit programme in place prior to 7 December 2020)

CofA means certificate of airworthiness.
ELS means Mode S elementary surveillance capability.
EHS means Mode S enhanced surveillance capability.
MTOM means maximum certified take-off mass.
TAS means true air speed.

Further information can be found in the AMC and GM to the SPI IR.