AIM Text
- TIS provides proximity warning only, to assist the pilot in the visual acquisition of intruder aircraft. No recommended avoidance maneuvers are provided nor authorized as a direct result of a TIS intruder display or TIS alert. It is intended for use by aircraft in which TCAS is not required.
- TIS does not alter or diminish the pilot's basic authority and responsibility to ensure safe flight. Since TIS does not respond to aircraft which are not transponder equipped, aircraft with a transponder failure, or aircraft out of radar coverage, TIS alone does not ensure safe separation in every case.
- At this time, no air traffic service nor handling is predicated on the availability of TIS equipment in the aircraft.
- Presently, no air traffic services or handling is predicated on the availability of an ADS-B cockpit display. A “traffic-in-sight” reply to ATC must be based on seeing an aircraft out-the-window, NOT on the cockpit display.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 4-4-17.
The short answer
This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance on the Traffic Information Service (TIS), which provides proximity warning only to help pilots visually acquire intruder aircraft. It is intended for aircraft not required to carry TCAS and does not alter the pilot's basic see-and-avoid responsibility under 14 CFR 91.113.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Does TIS provide avoidance maneuvers like TCAS?
Can TIS guarantee safe separation from all traffic?
No. Because TIS does not respond to aircraft that are not transponder equipped, have a transponder failure, or are out of radar coverage, TIS alone does not ensure safe separation in every case and does not diminish the pilot's authority and responsibility for safe flight.
Can I report traffic in sight based on a cockpit display?
No. The AIM states a "traffic-in-sight" reply to ATC must be based on seeing an aircraft out-the-window, NOT on the cockpit display. No air traffic service or handling is predicated on the availability of an ADS-B cockpit display.