Which aircraft will have STCs for installation of tailBeacon?

The STC is for the Cessna 172. The tail installation satisfies FAA requirements and will enable subsequent tailBeacon installations to be performed on any “suitable aircraft” without STC as a minor alteration.

A suitable aircraft supports the installation of the tailBeacon without airframe modification.

See mounting template for a 1:1 scale drawing to help you make this determination.

For guidance on fitment and installation submit a photo of your aircraft rear position light along with the year, manufacturer and model to support.

I don’t have a Cessna 172. How do I install tailBeacon?

A form 337 should be completed and submitted along with the proper logbook entries. Please note, the installer must determine if the conditions are appropriate for installation on a specific aircraft. Additional guidance for ADS-B installation, performance verification, logbook entries and 337 instructions have been provided in the FAA policy memo titled “Installation Approval for ADS-B OUT Systems“

How does the tailBeacon install?

tailBeacon is designed to be a direct replacement for the common navigation light or nav/strobe found on the tail of many aircraft. tailBeacon has the form factor and installation characteristics of a traditional Grimes style rear position light, referred to as a Grimes model S or A-2064.

It is recommended that you download the tailBeacon installation and user instructions and carefully check the installation template with the aircraft prior to purchase ensuring that the tailBeacon will fit your aircraft.

The installation manual is available from:

The mounting template is available from:

How long does a typical installation take?

A typical tailBeacon installation will take an installer around 1 hour. This is the time taken for the physical installation of the tailBeacon to the aircraft, configuring the device, and doing the proper paperwork. Please note that all aircraft are different and can potentially affect the installation time. Expect longer times on older aircraft because of the condition of the wiring.

We strongly recommend verification that the tailBeacon will fit the aircraft prior to installation or modification. More time will be required if wiring is poor, connections are poor, if a grounding strap needs to be added, or other modification is required. Plan accordingly.

What needs to be documented?

The ADS-B OUT alteration must be documented in the aircraft maintenance record per section 43.9(a) and include the statement, “The installed ADS-B OUT system was shown to meet the equipment performance requirements of 14 CFR section 91.227.”

337 form must be submitted

Flight Manual Supplement must be provided to the owner

Instructions for continued airworthiness must be provided to the owner

Make sure to add the password to the logbook or aircraft permanent records.

The following aircraft have been reported to have fitment issues by customers

It is the responsibility of the installer to determine suitability.