Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC)


ATL offer our services in providing an EASA STC to install Controller Pilot Data Link Communications, CPDLC to pre-empt the mandate phase where all aircraft operators flying in Link 2000+ airspace will be required to equip with the CPDLC/ATN avionics.

EUROCONTROL and ATM partners have demonstrated implementation feasibility of data link services through pre-operational trial projects, “Pioneer” Phase. In order to maximise the experience gained following these projects, the Link 2000+ Programme was created.

Following on from the Pioneer Phase, the Link 2000+ Program is currently investigating the possibility of introducing incentives by way of route charge reductions for those aircraft that are CPDLC/ATN equipped and operate in Link 2000+ airspace. The intended follow-on from this "Incentive" phase will be a "Mandate" phase where all aircraft operators flying in Link 2000+ airspace will be required to equip with the CPDLC/ATN avionics.

EASA AMC 20-11 Advisory Material for the Approval of use of Initial Services for Air-Ground Data Link in Continental Airspace. This Advisory material is for aircraft operators seeking early approval to use initial data link services in continental airspace. It provides an initial basis for approval of aircraft systems, and identifies operational considerations.

TGL 40 Operational Considerations for the use of initial services for Air-Ground Data Link Communications in European Airspace will be introduced at a later stage by EASA.

In parallel, the FAA is planning to develop CPDLC Build I/A which is compatible with LINK 2000+.

Eurocontrol has just released a DVD which describes the LINK 2000+ services and implementation activities. In a second part it also allows viewers to board a flight and follow live exchanges of CPDLC messages between the aircrew and controllers in Maastricht UAC, and summaries key items from the pioneer experience.