A failed FAA Public ADS-B Performance Report (PAPR) does not necessarily mean your ADS-B equipment is defective. In many cases, the issue is related to system configuration, installation, or data being transmitted incorrectly rather than a hardware failure.
Common causes of a failed or unsatisfactory PAPR include:
Many of these issues can be corrected without replacing the existing equipment.
Because the PAPR evaluates how your ADS-B Out system actually performed during flight, it is an excellent diagnostic tool for identifying configuration or installation issues that may not be apparent during normal ground testing.
If your report identifies one or more failures, the first step is to have the report reviewed by an experienced avionics technician. In many cases, the issue can be resolved through proper troubleshooting, software updates, or system reconfiguration.
Southeast Aerospace can assist with interpreting PAPR reports, diagnosing ADS-B performance issues, and recommending the most practical corrective action. If a system is approaching obsolescence or no longer cost-effective to maintain, we can also help evaluate modern ADS-B upgrade options that improve both compliance and situational awareness.
After any ADS-B installation, repair, software update, or configuration change, it's a good practice to request a new PAPR following a qualifying flight. Verifying your system's performance before your next trip can help prevent unexpected compliance issues and ensure your equipment is operating as intended.