July 24, 2024
Are you compliant with required controller pilot data link communications (CPDLC) processes? The FAA’s Data Comm Program recently called attention to policies and protocols frequently overlooked by operators, which can lead to significant frustration and connectivity issues.
The agency reported several operators experiencing difficulties with logging in or establishing connections with CPDLC, adding that many of these issues stem from the operators not completing the necessary equipage form. This results in the operator being placed on the FAA’s blocked list, ineligible to use CPDLC services.
The FAA has a checklist outlining steps required to participate in U.S. Domestic CPDLC. It is important to complete each task in the checklist, including accurate completion of the equipage form. Review the checklist.
“While we have seen the ramp up of business aviation back into the en route environment, it’s critical for operators to follow established protocols and processes,” said Heidi Williams, NBAA’s senior director, air traffic services and infrastructure. “We urge operators to remain in compliance by using the FAA’s checklist and filling out the proper forms.”
There are now eight fully operational CPDLC U.S. domestic en route facilities. The FAA has also declared Oakland Air Route Traffic Control Center (ZOA) CPDLC operations, joining Kansas City, Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Fort Worth, Miami Center and Los Angeles.
Experts from FAA contractor L3Harris and the business aviation industry will share their experiences and tips for CPDLC compliance at the 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). The panel will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at the Connection Zone in the Las Vegas Convention Center at 1:30 p.m.
InFO 23008, The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Policy Change for United States (U.S.) Domestic Data Link Operations, provides additional guidance for operators.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.