Blank Spot Area Analysis Using ADS-B Framework: An Indonesia International Airport Case Study

This article investigates the causes of the blank spot area on the Technical Situation Display Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) at an international airport in Indonesia. To achieve this objective, a mixed method approach was used for data collection and interpretation. The study findings indicate that the primary cause of the blank spot area is an obstacle that blocks the ADS-B messages from the receiver. The obstacle is identified as Batukaru mountain, which results in uncovered areas including Negara Regency and Alas Purwo National Park in Banyuwangi Regency on the flight procedure Standard Arrival (STAR) runway 09 in the Bali Terminal Manoeuvring Area traffic corridor, as well as on the KADIP-KAREO-KUTA and KADAL-KAKAK-KUTA lines. In addition, the width of the blank spot area is found to be 4.8 nautical miles. Our analysis also reveals that the blank spot area may increase the likelihood of accidents occurring by one to two times in every 63 s. Therefore, it is imperative to address the issue of blank spot areas to ensure air traffic safety in the Indonesia airspace. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on the causes and implications of the ADS-B blank spot area range, providing important insights for aviation safety in Indonesia.