Text Messaging On Another Level: CPDLC

Does your flight department have/want Ops Spec C056 authorization or a Letter of Authorization to conduct Controller Pilot Data Link Communications?

Last December, the FAA released Notice 8900.446 stating operators with current authorization for use of CPDLC would be required to apply for a revised A056 authorization by March 29, 2018 to align with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) mandate for PBCS.

Operators hoping to take advantage of reduced spacing on designated PBCS NAT Tracks after that date are required to have PBCS listed either on their A056 Ops Spec (Part 135) or a LOA (Part 91). If you are a Part 91 operator using CPDLC outside of the PBCS NAT Tracks, the deadline is coming up! It has been extended to September 30, 2018 to give the agency time to process LOA applications. All Part 135 operators in the ICAO NAT region between FL 350 and FL390 need to be CPDLC equipped and Ops Spec authorized.

There are currently 57 US airports offering CPDLC Departure Clearances (DCL) with air route traffic control centers next in line to use the technology that relays enroute communications and clearance information. It's only a matter of time for this technology to be used in every aspect of aviation communications.

Advanced Aircrew Academy offers a CPDCL/PBCS eLearning module (among 60+ choices), which would fit into your ground training curriculum for your Part 91 and/or 135 flight operations.