Icao Gold
Icao Gold
Icao Gold
This edition has been issued by the GOLD ad hoc Working Group for the
Asia/Pacific Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group
(APANPIRG), the North Atlantic Systems Planning Group (NAT SPG), the
European Air Navigation Planning Group (EANPG), the South American
Region Implementation Group (SAM/IG) and the African-Indian Ocean
Planning and Implementation Regional Group (APIRG).
This edition has been issued by the GOLD ad hoc Working Group for the
Asia/Pacific Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group
(APANPIRG), the North Atlantic Systems Planning Group (NAT SPG), the
European Air Navigation Planning Group (EANPG), the South American
Region Implementation Group (SAM/IG) and the African-Indian Ocean
Planning and Implementation Regional Group (APIRG).
AMENDMENTS
The issue of amendments is announced by the ICAO Regional Offices concerned, which holders of this
publication should consult. The space below is provided to keep a record of such amendments.
Table of Contents
Page
FOREWORD . ......................................................................................................................................... xv
Chapter 6. Advanced air traffic services supported by data link ................................................. 6-1
6.1 Re-route procedures ................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.1.1 General........................................................................................................................ 6-1
6.1.2 Re-route procedures AOC initiated (DARP) ........................................................... 6-1
6.1.3 Re-route procedures ATC initiated .......................................................................... 6-4
6.2 Tailored arrival (TA) ............................................................................................................. 6-11
6.2.1 General...................................................................................................................... 6-11
Second Edition 26 April 2013 (vi) GOLD
Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD) (vii)
6.2.2 Provisions for the TA service ................................................................................... 6-12
6.2.3 Clearance delivery and execution ............................................................................. 6-12
6.3 Automatic dependent surveillance broadcast in-trail procedure (ADS-B ITP) .................. 6-16
6.3.1 General...................................................................................................................... 6-16
6.3.2 Provisions for the ADS-B ITP service and operator eligibility ................................ 6-17
6.3.3 Clearance delivery and execution ............................................................................. 6-17
List of Figures
Figure 2-1. Overview of a data link system .......................................................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2. Different ATSU/aircraft interoperable connectivity........................................................... 2-3
Figure 2-3. Uplink and message assurance ......................................................................................... 2-13
Figure 2-4. Downlink and network acknowledgement ....................................................................... 2-14
Figure 2-5. Uplink and logical acknowledgement .............................................................................. 2-15
Figure 2-6. Downlink and logical acknowledgement ......................................................................... 2-15
Figure 2-7. Initial logon exchanges ..................................................................................................... 2-22
Figure 2-8. Air-ground address forwarding message sequence (Transfer between areas where
data link is provided) ........................................................................................................ 2-23
Figure 2-9. Ground-ground address forwarding using logon forwarding message............................. 2-24
Figure 2-10. CPDLC connection sequence ........................................................................................... 2-25
Figure 2-11. Successful attempt to establish a CPDLC connection (inactive)...................................... 2-26
Figure 2-12. Termination of the CPDLC connection ............................................................................ 2-27
Figure 2-13. Next data authority notification ........................................................................................ 2-28
Figure 2-14. Connection forwarding ..................................................................................................... 2-29
Figure 2-15. Life cycle of the CPDLC connection process .................................................................. 2-30
Figure 2-16. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using air-ground address forwarding ............................................... 2-31
Figure 2-17. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using ground-ground address forwarding (no use of Next
Authority Notified) ........................................................................................................... 2-32
Figure 2-18. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using ground-ground address forwarding (use of Next
Authority Notified) ........................................................................................................... 2-33
Figure 2-19. Rejection of CPDLC uplinks from the NDA.................................................................... 2-34
Figure 2-20. Depiction of the change in route of an aircraft ................................................................. 2-35
Figure 2-21. Sending a new NDA following a re-route ........................................................................ 2-36
Figure 2-22. Non-receipt of the NDA message..................................................................................... 2-37
Figure 2-23. Connection request from an ATSU not designated as the NDA ...................................... 2-37
Figure 2-24. Successful CPDLC connection following a re-send of the NDA message ...................... 2-38
Figure 2-25. Disconnection of both active and inactive connections.................................................... 2-39
GOLD (vii) Second Edition 26 April 2013
(viii) Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD)
Figure 2-26. Message/dialogue status for CPDLC request and clearance exchange ............................ 2-43
Figure 2-27. Message/dialogue status for CPDLC confirmation request and report exchange ............ 2-44
Figure 2-28. ADS-C periodic contract sequence .................................................................................. 2-47
Figure 2-29. ADS-C emergency and non-emergency report sequence ................................................. 2-49
Figure 2-30. ADS-C event contract sequence ....................................................................................... 2-50
Figure 2-31. ADS-C waypoint change event ........................................................................................ 2-50
Figure 2-32. ADS-C level range deviation event .................................................................................. 2-51
Figure 2-33. ADS-C level range deviation event report ....................................................................... 2-51
Figure 2-34. ADS-C lateral deviation event.......................................................................................... 2-52
Figure 2-35. ADS-C lateral deviation event report ............................................................................... 2-52
Figure 2-36. Effect of offset on ADS-C lateral deviation event report ................................................. 2-53
Figure 2-37. No lateral deviation event report if active route is different to route held by ATSU ....... 2-54
Figure 2-38. ADS-C basic group........................................................................................................... 2-56
Figure 2-39. ADS-C flight identification group .................................................................................... 2-56
Figure 2-40. ADS-C Earth reference group .......................................................................................... 2-56
Figure 2-41. ADS-C air reference group............................................................................................... 2-57
Figure 2-42. ADS-C airframe identification group ............................................................................... 2-57
Figure 2-43. ADS-C meteorological group ........................................................................................... 2-57
Figure 2-44. ADS-C predicted route group ........................................................................................... 2-58
Figure 2-45. ADS-C fixed projected intent group................................................................................. 2-58
Figure 2-46. ADS-C intermediate projected intent group ..................................................................... 2-59
Figure 2-47. Multiple ADS periodic contracts with different groups ................................................... 2-61
Figure 2-48. Multiple ADS periodic contracts with different reporting intervals................................. 2-61
Figure 2-49. Multiple and different ADS event contracts ..................................................................... 2-62
Figure 2-50. Calculation of ADS-C periodic reporting interval ........................................................... 2-64
Figure 4-1. CPDLC connection transfer - separate messages .............................................................. 4-4
Figure 4-2. Transiting small data link area ........................................................................................... 4-7
Figure 4-3. Priorities for ADS-C connections ..................................................................................... 4-23
Figure 4-4. ADS-C connection not available due to congestion ......................................................... 4-24
Figure 5-1. Depiction of logon addresses and CPDLC/ADS-C services on en route chart .................. 5-5
Figure 5-2. Waypoint sequencing anomaly......................................................................................... 5-17
Figure 5-3. Offset and weather deviation ............................................................................................ 5-19
Figure 5-4. Weather deviation clearance up to 20 NM left of route ................................................... 5-20
Figure 5-5. Subsequent weather deviation clearance up to 50 NM left of route ................................. 5-21
Figure 5-6. Subsequent weather deviation clearance up to 30 NM right of route............................... 5-22
Figure 6-1. The DARP process ............................................................................................................. 6-4
Figure 6-2. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is on the current route and
there is no route discontinuity ............................................................................................ 6-7
Figure 6-3. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is on the current route and
there is route discontinuity ................................................................................................. 6-8
Figure 6-4. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is not on the current route
and there is no route discontinuity...................................................................................... 6-9
Figure 6-5. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is not on the current route
and there is route discontinuity......................................................................................... 6-10
Figure 6-6. ATC initiated re-route aircraft is cleared direct to a fix that is located
downstream in the current route ....................................................................................... 6-11
Figure 7-1. Air refueling pattern ........................................................................................................... 7-3
Appendices
Appendix A CPDLC message elements and standardized free text messages .................................. 1
A.1 General........................................................................................................................................ 1
A.2 CPDLC message element response requirements key ................................................................ 3
A.3 CPDLC uplink message elements .............................................................................................. 4
A.4 CPDLC downlink message elements........................................................................................ 32
A.5 CPDLC standardized free text messages .................................................................................. 46
A.5.1 CPDLC standardized free text uplink messages .......................................................... 46
A.5.2 CPDLC standardized free text downlink messages ..................................................... 52
FOREWORD.
1. Historical background
1.1 The Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD) is the result of the progressive evolution
of the ICAO Asia-Pacific (APAC) Initial Future Air Navigation System (FANS 1/A) Operations Manual,
the North Atlantic (NAT) Guidance Material for ATS Data Link Services in North Atlantic Airspace and
the Eurocontrol LINK2000+ Guidance Material for the aeronautical telecommunication network baseline
1 (ATN B1).
1.2 Each of these founding documents provided guidance on a regional basis. However, in
recognition of the need to provide globally harmonized guidance on data link operations, the GOLD, First
Edition, merging initially the APAC and NAT guidance material, was adopted by the APAC and NAT
Regions in 2010. The Second Edition of the GOLD enabled integration of the LINK2000+ guidance
material.
1.3 The GOLD addresses data link service provision, operator readiness, controller and flight crew
procedures, performance-based specifications and post-implementation monitoring and analysis.
3. Status
This guidance is approved and maintained by the respective participating PIRGs and has a status of
an ICAO regional guidance material. It contains material that may eventually become Standards and
Recommended Practices (SARPs) or PANS provisions when it has reached the maturity and stability
necessary for adoption or approval. It also comprises material prepared as an amplification of the basic
principles in the corresponding SARPs, and designed particularly to assist the user in the application of
the SARPs and PANS.
4. Implementation
With a view of facilitating implementation of the provisions herein by States, this guidance material
has been prepared using language that permits direct use by all users.
5. References
6.1 The following references are cited in this document:
a) ICAO Annex 1 Personnel Licensing
b) ICAO Annex 2 Rules of the Air
c) ICAO Annex 4 Aeronautical Charts
d) ICAO Annex 6 Operation of Aircraft Part I International Commercial Air Transport
Aeroplanes
e) ICAO Annex 10 Aeronautical Telecommunications Volume II Communication
Procedures including those with PANS status
f) ICAO Annex 10 Aeronautical Telecommunications Volume III Communication
Systems
g) ICAO Annex 11 Air Traffic Services
h) ICAO Annex 15 Aeronautical Information Services
i) Procedures for Air Navigation Services Air Traffic Management (PANS-ATM, ICAO
Doc 4444)
j) Regional Supplementary Procedures (Regional SUPPs, ICAO Doc 7030)
k) Procedures for Air Navigation Services ICAO Abbreviations and Codes (PANS-ABC, ICAO
Doc 8400)
l) Designators for Aircraft Operating Agencies, Aeronautical Authorities and Services (ICAO
Doc 8585)
Chapter 1. Definitions
Term
ADS-C service. A term used to indicate an ATS service that provides surveillance information by
means of the ADS-C application.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444 does not include ADS-C in its definition for ATS surveillance system.
Therefore, an ATS surveillance service does not consider those provided by means of the ADS-C
application, unless it can be shown by comparative assessment to have a level of safety and
performance equal to or better than monopulse SSR.
Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). A publication issued by or with the authority of a State
and containing aeronautical information of a lasting character essential to air navigation. (ICAO)
Aeronautical operational control (AOC). Communication required for the exercise of authority over
the initiation, continuation, diversion or termination of flight for safety, regularity and efficiency
reasons. (ICAO)
Air navigation services provider (ANSP). An organization responsible for the provision of air traffic
services.
Air traffic control (ATC) clearance. Authorization for an aircraft to proceed under conditions
specified by an air traffic control unit.
Note 1. For convenience, the term air traffic control clearance is frequently abbreviated to
clearance when used in appropriate contexts.
Note 2. The abbreviated term clearance may be prefixed by the words taxi, take-off,
departure, en-route, approach or landing to indicate the particular portion of flight to which
the air traffic control clearance relates.
(ICAO)
Term
Air traffic control (ATC) service. A service provided for the purpose of:
a) Preventing collisions:
1) Between aircraft, and
2) On the manoeuvring area between aircraft and obstructions; and
b) Expediting and maintaining an orderly flow of air traffic. (ICAO)
Air traffic management (ATM). The dynamic, integrated management of air traffic and airspace
including air traffic services, airspace management and air traffic flow management safely,
economically and efficiently through the provision of facilities and seamless services in
collaboration with all parties and involving airborne and ground-based functions. (ICAO)
Air traffic service (ATS). A generic term meaning variously, flight information service, alerting
service, air traffic advisory service, air traffic control service (area control service, approach control
service or aerodrome control service). (ICAO)
Air traffic services unit (ATSU). A generic term meaning variously, air traffic control unit, flight
information centre or air traffic services reporting office. (ICAO)
Airborne collision avoidance system (ACAS). An aircraft system based on secondary surveillance
radar (SSR) transponder signals which operates independently of ground-based equipment to
provide advice to the pilot on potential conflicting aircraft that are equipped with SSR
transponders. (ICAO)
Aircraft address. A unique combination of 24 bits available for assignment to an aircraft for the
purpose of air-ground communications, navigation and surveillance. (ICAO)
Aircraft identification. A group of letters, figures or a combination thereof which is either identical to,
or the coded equivalent of, the aircraft call sign to be used in air-ground communications, and
which is used to identify the aircraft in ground-ground air traffic services communications. (ICAO)
Note 1. The aircraft identification does not exceed 7 characters and is either the aircraft
registration or the ICAO designator for the aircraft operating agency followed by the flight
identification.
Note 2. ICAO designators for aircraft operating agencies are contained in ICAO Doc 8585.
Aircraft registration. A group of letters, figures or a combination thereof which is assigned by the
State of Registry to identify the aircraft.
Note. Also referred to as registration marking.
Term
Aircraft system availability (A AIRCRAFT ). The required probability of available capability on an aircraft
with an average flight of 6 hours.
Note. The actual aircraft system availability is computed assuming that the service is available
in the relevant airspace.
Air-report. A report from an aircraft in flight prepared in conformity with requirements for position,
and operational and/or meteorological reporting. (ICAO)
Altitude reservation (ALTRV). Airspace utilization under prescribed conditions normally employed
for the mass movement of aircraft or other special requirements which cannot otherwise be
accomplished.
Appropriate ATS authority. The relevant authority designated by the State responsible for providing
air traffic services in the airspace concerned. (ICAO)
Appropriate authority.
a) Regarding flight over the high seas: The relevant authority of the State of Registry.
b) Regarding flight other than over the high seas: The relevant authority of the State having
sovereignty over the territory being overflown. (ICAO)
Area control centre (ACC). A unit established to provide air traffic control service to controlled flights
in control areas under its jurisdiction. (ICAO)
ATC waypoint. A waypoint contained in Item 15 of the ICAO flight plan, or as amended by ATC.
Note. A waypoint inserted by the flight crew for purposes of conducting flight operations such as
points of no return are not ATC waypoints.
ATS interfacility data communication (AIDC). Automated data exchange between air traffic services
units, particularly in regard to co-ordination and transfer of flights. (ICAO)
ATS surveillance service. A term used to indicate a service provided directly by means of an ATS
surveillance system. (ICAO)
ATS surveillance system. A generic term meaning variously, ADS-B, PSR, SSR or any comparable
ground-based system that enables the identification of aircraft.
Note. A comparable ground-based system is one that has been demonstrated, by comparative
assessment or other methodology, to have a level of safety and performance equal to or better than
monopulse SSR.
(ICAO)
Term
Automatic dependent surveillance contract (ADS-C). A means by which the terms of an ADS-C
agreement will be exchanged between the ground system and the aircraft, via a data link,
specifying under what conditions ADS-C reports would be initiated, and what data would be
contained in the reports. (ICAO)
Note. The abbreviated term ADS contract is commonly used to refer to ADS event contract,
ADS demand contract, ADS periodic contract or an emergency mode.
C for RCTP. The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be delivered within the
specified RCTP time for intervention.
C for RCTP AIR . The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be delivered within the
specified RCTP AIR time for intervention.
C for RCTP ATSU . The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be delivered within
the specified RCTP ATSU time for intervention.
C for RCTP CSP . The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be delivered within
the specified RCTP CSP time for intervention.
C for RSTP AIR . The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the specified
RSTP AIR time.
C for RSTP ATSU . The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the specified
RSTP ATSU time.
C for RSTP CSP . The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the specified
RSTP CSP time.
C for TRN. The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be delivered within the
specified TRN time for intervention.
Call sign. The designator used in air-ground communications to identify the aircraft and is equivalent to
the encoded aircraft identification.
Term
Closure response. A message containing a message element that has the ability to close another
message.
Compulsory reporting point. An ATC waypoint for which a position report is required by the aircraft.
Control area (CTA). A controlled airspace extending upwards from a specified limit above the earth.
(ICAO)
Controller. A person authorized by the appropriate authority to provide air traffic control services.
CPDLC message. Information exchanged between an airborne application and its ground counterpart.
A CPDLC message consists of a single message element or a combination of message elements
conveyed in a single transmission by the initiator.
Note. The abbreviated term message is commonly used to refer to a CPDLC message.
CPDLC message element. A component of a message. A message element is defined for specific uses
(e.g. vertical clearance, route modification). Afree text message element provides additional
capability.
Note. The abbreviated term message element is commonly used to refer to a CPDLC message
element.
Current data authority (CDA). The designated ground system through which a CPDLC dialogue
between a pilot and a controller currently responsible for the flight is permitted to take place.
(ICAO)
Data link initiation capability (DLIC). A data link application that provides the ability to exchange
addresses, names and version numbers necessary to initiate data link applications. (ICAO)
Dialogue. A co-operative relationship between elements which enables communication and joint
operation. (ICAO)
Term
Dynamic airborne re-route procedure (DARP). The procedure for executing a re-route clearance
initiated by a request from AOC.
Flight crew member. A person authorized by the appropriate authority charged with duties essential to
the operations of an aircraft on the flight deck during a flight duty period.
Flight identification. A group of numbers, which is usually associated with an ICAO designator for an
aircraft operating agency, to identify the aircraft in Item 7 of the flight plan.
Flight information region (FIR). An airspace of defined dimensions within which flight information
service and alerting service are provided. (ICAO)
Flight level (FL). A surface of constant atmospheric pressure which is related to a specific pressure
datum, 1 013.2 hectopascals (hPa), and is separated from other such surfaces by specific pressure
intervals. (ICAO)
Note 1. A pressure type altimeter calibrated in accordance with the Standard Atmosphere:
a) when set to a QNH altimeter setting, will indicate altitude;
b) when set to QFE altimeter setting, will indicate height above the QFE reference datum;
c) when set to a pressure of 1 013.2 hPa, may be used to indicate flight levels.
Note 2. The terms height and altitude, used in Note 1 above, indicate altimetric rather than
geometric heights and altitudes.
Flight plan. Specified information provided to air traffic services units, relative to an intended flight or
portion of a flight of an aircraft. (ICAO)
A flight plan can take several forms, such as:
Current flight plan (CPL). The flight plan, including changes, if any, brought about by
subsequent clearances. (ICAO)
Note 1. When the word message is used as a suffix to this term, it denotes the content and
format of the current flight plan data sent from one unit to another.
Filed flight plan (FPL). The flight plan as filed with an ATS unit by the pilot or a designated
representative, without any subsequent changes. (ICAO)
Note 2. When the word message is used as a suffix to this term, it denotes the content and
format of the filed flight plan data as transmitted.
Aircraft active flight plan. The flight plan used by the flight crew. The sequence of legs and
associated constraints that define the expected 3D or 4D trajectory of the aircraft from takeoff to
landing. (RTCA/EUROCAE)
Term
FMC WPR service. A term used to indicate an ATS service that provides surveillance information by
means of the FMC WPR application.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444 does not include FMC WPR in its definition for ATS surveillance system.
Therefore, an ATS surveillance service does not consider those provided by means of the FMC WPR
application, unless it can be shown by comparative assessment to have a level of safety and
performance equal to or better than monopulse SSR.
Figure of merit. An indication of the aircraft navigation systems ability to maintain position accuracy.
Free text message element. A message element used to exchange information not conforming to a
defined message element.
Lateral deviation event (LDE). A type of event that triggers an ADS-C report when the absolute value
of the lateral distance between the aircraft`s actual position and the aircraft`s expected position on
the aircraft active flight plan becomes greater than the lateral deviation threshold.
Level range deviation event (LRDE). A type of event that triggers an ADS-C report when the
aircraft`s level is higher than the level ceiling or the aircraft`s level is lower than the level floor.
Note. Sometimes referred to as altitude range change event or altitude range event.
Maximum accumulated unplanned outage time (min/yr). Measured by accumulating only the
duration times for unplanned outages greater than the unplanned outage duration limit during any
12-month period. The accumulation is performed separately for each relevant operational airspace.
Maximum number of unplanned outages. Measured separately for each relevant operational airspace
over any 12-month period.
Message. Basic unit of user information exchanged between an airborne application and its ground
counterpart or between two ground applications. Messages are passed in one or more data blocks
from one end user to another through different subnetworks. (ICAO Doc 9880)
Note. Used in this document to mean CPDLC message.
Message element. A component of a message used to define the context of the information exchanged.
(ICAO Doc 9880)
Note. Used in this document to mean CPDLC message element.
Message identification number (MIN). An integer in the range 0 to 63 (inclusive) that uniquely
identifies specific uplink and downlink messages for each CPDLC connection.
Military assumes responsibility for the separation of aircraft (MARSA). Procedures between the
controller and the aircraft that delegate the separation responsibility temporarily to the military
authority operating the flights, thereby relieving ATC of the separation workload.
Term
Minimum equipment list (MEL). A list which provides for the operation of aircraft, subject to
specified conditions, with particular equipment inoperative, prepared by an operator in conformity
with, or more restrictive than, the MMEL established for the aircraft type. (ICAO)
Monitored operational performance (TRN). The portion of the transaction time (used for
intervention) that does not include the times for message composition or recognition of the
operational response.
Multi-element message. A CPDLC message consisting of more than one message element (clearance,
instruction or information), handled by the controller of the flight crew as a single message.
Navigation specification. A set of aircraft and flight crew requirements needed to support performance-
based navigation operations within a defined airspace. There are two kinds of navigation
specifications:
Required navigation performance (RNP) specification. A navigation specification based on area
navigation that includes the requirement for performance monitoring and alerting, designated
by the prefix RNP (e.g. RNP 4, RNP APCH).
Area navigation (RNAV) specification. A navigation specification based on area navigation that
does not include the requirement for performance monitoring and alerting, designated by the
prefix RNAV (e.g. RNAV 5, RNAV 1).
Note 1. The Performance-based Navigation (PBN) Manual (Doc 9613), Volume II, contains
detailed guidance on navigation specifications.
Note 2. The term RNP, previously defined as a statement of the navigation performance
necessary for operation within a defined airspace, has been removed from this Annex as the concept of
RNP has been overtaken by the concept of PBN. The term RNP is now solely used in the context of
navigation specifications that require performance monitoring and alerting (e.g. RNP 4 refers to the
aircraft and operating requirements, including a 4 NM lateral performance with on-board performance
monitoring and alerting that are detailed in Doc 9613).
Next data authority. The ground system so designated by the current data authority through which an
onward transfer of communications and control can take place. (ICAO)
Open message. A message that contains at least one message element that requires a response. An
open message remains open until the required response is received.
Operational communication transaction. The process a human uses to initiate the transmission of an
instruction, clearance, flight information, and/or request, and is completed when that human is
confident that the transaction is complete.
Term
Preformatted free text message. A free text message element that is stored within the aircraft system
or ground system for selection.
Procedural control. Term used to indicate that information derived from an ATS surveillance system
is not required for the provision of air traffic control service. (ICAO)
Procedural separation. The separation used when providing procedural control. (ICAO)
RCP availability (A). The required probability that an operational communication transaction can be
initiated when needed.
RCP continuity (C). The required probability that an operational communication transaction can be
completed within the communication transaction time, either ET or TT 95%, given that the service
was available at the start of the transaction.
RCP expiration time (ET). The maximum time for the completion of the operational communication
transaction after which the initiator is required to revert to an alternative procedure.
Term
RCP integrity (I). The required probability that an operational communication transaction is completed
with no undetected errors.
Note. Whilst RCP integrity is defined in terms of the goodness of the communication
capability, it is specified in terms of the likelihood of occurrence of malfunction on a per flight hour
-5
basis (e.g. 10 ), consistent with RNAV/RNP specifications.
RCP nominal time (TT 95%). The maximum nominal time within which 95% of operational
communication transactions is required to be completed.
RCP type. A label (e.g. RCP 240) that represents the values assigned to RCP parameters for
communication transaction time, continuity, availability and integrity. (ICAO)
Note. This document uses the term RCP specification to align RCP with RNP and RNAV
specifications provided in the Performance Based Navigation Manual.
RCTP AIR . The summed critical transit times for an ATC intervention message and a response message,
allocated to the aircraft system.
RCTP ATSU . The summed critical transit times for an ATC intervention message and a response
message, allocated to the ATSU system.
RCTP CSP . The summed critical transit times for an ATC intervention message and a response message,
allocated to the CSP system.
Required communication performance (RCP) specification. A set of requirements for air traffic
service provision, aircraft capability, and operations needed to support performance-based
communication within a defined airspace.
Note 1. See ICAO Doc 9869 and Appendix B of this document for RCP specifications.
Note 2. The term RCP, currently defined by ICAO as a statement of performance requirements
for operational communication in support of specific ATM functions, is used in this document to align
the concept of PBC with the concept of PBN. The term RCP is now used in the context of a specification
that is applicable to the prescription of airspace requirements, qualification of ATS provision, aircraft
capability, and operational use, including post-implementation monitoring (e.g. RCP 240 refers to the
criteria for various components of the operational system to ensure an acceptable intervention
capability for the controller is maintained.
Required surveillance technical performance (RSTP). The technical transit time for surveillance data
delivery from the time associated with the aircrafts position to when the recipient (e.g. ATSU)
receives the report, but does not include the generation or processing of the report.
Term
Required surveillance performance (RSP) specification. A set of requirements for air traffic service
provision, aircraft capability, and operations needed to support performance-based surveillance
within a defined airspace.
Note 1. See ICAO Doc 9869 and Appendix C of this document for RSP specifications.
Note 2. The term RSP is used in the context of a specification that is applicable to the
prescription of airspace requirements, qualification of ATS provision, aircraft capability, and
operational use, including post-implementation monitoring (e.g. RSP 180 refers to the criteria for
various components of the operational system to ensure an acceptable surveillance capability for the
controller is maintained).
Responder performance criteria. The operational portion of the transaction time to prepare the
operational response, and includes the recognition of the instruction, and message composition
(e.g. flight crew/HMI) for intervention transactions.
RSTP AIR . The overdue (OD) and nominal (DT) transit times for surveillance data from the aircraft
system to the antenna.
RSTP ATSU . The overdue (OD) and nominal (DT) transit times for surveillance data from the CSP
interface to the ATSUs flight data processing system.
RSTP CSP . The overdue (OD) and nominal (DT) transit times for surveillance data allocated to the CSP.
Service availability (A CSP ). The required probability that the communication service is available to all
users in a specific airspace when desired.
Standardized free text message. A message element that uses a defined free text message format,
using specific words in a specific order which has been agreed by stakeholders. Standardized free
text message elements may be manually entered by the user or may be a preformatted free text
message.
Standard message element. Any message element defined by ICAO Doc 4444 that does not contain
the [free text] parameter.
RSP availability (A). The required probability that surveillance data can be provided when needed.
RSP continuity (C). The required probability that surveillance data can be delivered within the
surveillance delivery time parameter, either OT or DT 95%, given that the service was available at
the start of delivery.
Surveillance data. Data pertaining to the identification of aircraft and/or obstructions for route
conformance monitoring and safe and efficient conduct of flight.
RSP data transit time. The required time for surveillance data delivery.
Term
RSP integrity (I). The required probability that the surveillance data is delivered with no undetected
error.
Note 1. Surveillance integrity includes such factors as the accuracy of time, correlating the time
at aircraft position, reporting interval, data latency, extrapolation and/or estimation of the data.
Note 2. Whilst surveillance integrity is defined in terms of the goodness of the surveillance
capability, it is specified in terms of the likelihood of occurrence of malfunction on a per flight hour
-5
basis (e.g. 10 ), consistent with RCP and RNAV/RNP specifications.
RSP nominal delivery time (DT 95%). The maximum nominal time within which 95% of surveillance
data is required to be delivered.
RSP overdue delivery time (OT). The maximum time for the successful delivery of surveillance data
after which the initiator is required to revert to an alternative procedure.
RSP specification. A set of ATS provision, including communication services, aircraft and operator
requirements (e.g. RSP 180) needed for surveillance supporting a performance-based operation
within a defined airspace.
Tailored arrival (TA). A 4-dimentional (4-D) arrival procedure, based on an optimized ATC
clearance, including, as necessary, vertical and/or speed restrictions, from the aircraft's current
position, normally just prior to top of descent, to the designated destination runway. The TA
clearance is issued via CPDLC data link message(s) to the aircraft and automatically loaded into
the aircraft's 4-D trajectory guidance capability.
Time critical situation. A situation when a prompt controlling action is required in the provision of air
traffic services.
Note. Time-criticality is mainly determined by the following factors: ATC traffic situation, end-
to-end performance (systems and flight crew/controller response time), recovery time and
controller/flight crew confidence and experience on the means of communication that are available.
Unplanned outage duration limit (minutes). Time after the unplanned outage begins at which there is
an operational impact. Measured from when an unplanned outage begins to when the ATSU
receives notification that the service has been restored.
Unplanned outage notification delay (min). Notification to the ATSU of an unplanned outage.
Measured from when the unplanned outage begins to when the ATSU receives notification.
Vertical rate change event (VRE). A type of event that triggers an ADS-C report when the aircraft`s
rate of climb or descent is greater than the vertical rate threshold.
Term
Waypoint change event (WCE). A type of event that triggers an ADS-C report when there is a change
in the next waypoint or the next plus 1 waypoint on the aircraft active flight plan.
1.2 Acronyms
When the following acronyms are used in this document they have the following meanings. Where the
term has (ICAO) annotated, the acronym has already been defined as such in SARPs and/or PANS.
Acronym Description
ADS Automatic dependent surveillance (retained for reference with non-updated documents.
This term would normally be used to refer to ADS-C).
Acronym Description
CDA Current data authority. (See ICAO definition for current data authority)
Acronym Description
D-ATIS Data link automatic terminal information service (data link service).
DM Downlink message.
FANS 1/A Future air navigation system - initial, as defined by RTCA DO-258A/EUROCAE
ED-100A, or previous standards that defined the FANS 1/A capability.
Note. FANS 1/A generally means that the data link system on an aircraft, the
ATSU ground system, and communication service provision comply with the standard.
In certain cases, specific reference is made to a particular type of FANS 1/A aircraft as
follows:
a). FANS 1/A+ means that the aircraft completely complies with Revision A of the
standard, which includes message latency monitor; and
b) FANS 1/A ADS-C means that the aircraft complies with AFN and ADS-C
applications, but does not include the CPDLC application.
Acronym Description
FL Flight level.
NDA Next data authority. (See ICAO definition for next data authority.)
Acronym Description
PANS-ATM Procedures for Air Navigation Services Air Traffic Management (ICAO Doc 4444).
(ICAO)
TA Tailored arrival.
UM Uplink message.
Acronym Description
2.1.1.1 Data link services provide communications that are intended to support more efficient air
traffic management and increase airspace capacity.
2.1.1.2 In addition, in airspace where procedural separation is being applied, the data link
services improve communications, surveillance and route conformance monitoring to support operational
capabilities that enable:
a) Reduced separations, for example, in addition to navigation performance requirements, the
following reduced separations require FANS 1/A aircraft, FANS 1/A ATSU, RCP 240 and RSP 180;
1) 50 NM longitudinal separation;
2) 30 NM longitudinal separation;
3) 30 NM lateral separation;
b) User preferred route (UPR);
c) Dynamic airborne re-route procedure (DARP); and
d) Weather deviation management.
2.1.1.3 CPDLC improves communication capabilities by reducing voice channel congestion and
enabling the use of CPDLC-related automation.
2.1.1.4 Depending on the specific implementation, other advantages associated with CPDLC
include:
a) Providing direct controller-pilot communications (DCPC) in airspace where it was not
previously available;
b) Allowing the flight crew to print messages;
c) Allowing messages to be stored and reviewed as needed;
d) Reducing flight crew-input errors by allowing the loading of information from specific uplink
messages, such as route clearances or frequency change instructions, into other aircraft systems, such as
the FMS or radios;
e) Allowing the flight crew to request complex route clearances, which the controller can respond
to without having to manually enter a long string of coordinates;
f) Reducing flight crew workload by supporting automatically transmitted reports when a specific
event occurs, such as crossing a waypoint and the loading of clearance information directly into the flight
management system;
g) Reducing controller workload by providing automatic flight plan updates when specific
downlink messages (and responses to some uplink messages) are received.
2.1.2.1 Data link is a generic term that encompasses different types of data link systems and
subnetworks. Figure 2-1 provides an overview of a data link system, including subnetworks. While all
data link capable aircraft have access to VHF data link, not all aircraft have access to additional satellite,
and/or HF data link capability. Similarly, not all CSPs have HF data link capability. Some ANSPs do not
operationally require, nor allow use of, some of the subnetworks (e.g. SATCOM).
CSP Networks
ATS Unit(s)
2.1.2.2 Figure 2-2 shows different ATSU ground systems and aircraft systems that are
interoperable. A designator is assigned to each type of ATSU and aircraft data link system. Table 2-1
provides a brief description for each designator and identifies the applicable interoperability standards.
Note 1. RTCA DO-305A/EUROCAE ED-154A chapter 4 provides additional requirements to
support automatic CPDLC transfers between ATSUs using different technologies (i.e. FANS 1/A and
ATN B1). Refer to paragraph 3.1.2.2 for applicability of chapter 4 in RTCA DO-305A/EUROCAE
ED-154A to ATN B1, FANS 1/A-ATN B1 and FANS 1/A ground systems.
Note 2. A single aircraft or a single ATSU may employ multiple types of data link systems.
FANS 1/A-ATN B1 aircraft are not specifically depicted in Figure 2-2.
2.1.2.4 The applicable interoperability standards for each type of data link system and each type
of subnetwork allocate requirements to the operator, the aircraft data link system, and the ANSP to ensure
that the aircraft system, the ATSU ground system, and subnetworks are compatible.
Operator CSP
Functionally
AOC equivalent CFRS CADS
ATSU Any airspace ATSU Oceanic and remote airspace ATSU Continental airspace
2.1.3.1.1 The Safety and Performance Standard for Air Traffic Data Link Services in Oceanic and
Remote Airspace (Oceanic SPR Standard, RTCA DO-306/EUROCAE ED-122), provides operational,
safety and performance criteria for data link services that are applicable in airspace, where procedural
separation is being applied, for normal ATC communication and surveillance to support separation
assurance, route conformance monitoring, re-routes, and weather deviation management. These criteria
include specifications for required communication performance (RCP) and required surveillance
performance (RSP), taking into consideration the following data link applications:
a) Data link initiation capability (DLIC);
b) CPDLC for ATC communication;
1) RCP 240 operations; and
2) RCP 400 operations;
c) ADS-C for surveillance - automatic position reporting;
1) RSP 180 operations; and
2) RSP 400 operations;
GOLD 2-7 Second Edition 26 April 2013
2-8 Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD)
d) FMC WPR for surveillance - automatic position reporting at ATC waypoints.
Note. When RCP and RSP specifications are prescribed in Regional SUPPs, AIP (or other
appropriate publication), the specifications are associated with any required interoperability (e.g.
FANS 1/A or ATN B1) and functionality (e.g, ADS periodic and event contracts and parameter values to
be used.)
2.1.3.1.2 If the data link operation is dependent on certain performance, then the ANSP may
prescribe RCP and/or RSP specifications. Table 2-3 provides examples of intended uses for which the
RCP specifications defined in Appendix B are applicable. Table 2-4 provides examples of intended uses
for which the RSP specifications defined in Appendix C are applicable.
Note 1. For example, satellite voice and CPDLC over the HFDL subnetwork may provide ATC
communication other than by HF voice radio. Appendix B and Appendix C provide criteria only when
the communication is a data link system.
2.1.3.1.4 Aircraft capability that supports multiple RCP and/or RSP operations needs to include
appropriate indications and/or procedures to enable the flight crew to notify ATC when aircraft equipment
failures result in the aircrafts inability to meet its criteria for any of the RCP or RSP specifications. (See
Appendix B and Appendix C.)
2.1.3.1.5 An ATSU that supports multiple RCP and/or RSP operations needs to include appropriate
indications and/or procedures to enable the controller to notify all affected aircraft when infrastructure
failures result in the ground systems inability to meet its criteria for any of the RCP or RSP
specifications.
2.1.3.1.6 If no RCP or RSP specification is prescribed for the data link operation, then any
subnetwork provided in Table 2-2 is acceptable, unless otherwise prescribed by airspace requirements.
2.1.3.2.1 The Safety and Performance Standard for Air Traffic Data Link Services in Continental
Airspace (Continental SPR Standard, RTCA DO-290/EUROCAE ED-120, Change 1 and Change 2),
provides operational, safety and performance criteria for data link services in airspace where ATS
surveillance services (e.g. radar services) are provided and where certain specific criteria for sector
densities and separation minima apply. Specific criteria for data link services to support ATS surveillance
under circumstances where lower densities and/or higher minima apply would be locally assessed taking
into consideration the appropriate safety and performance standards.
2.1.3.2.2 Appendix B provides an RCP 150 specification based on the performance criteria
provided in RTCA DO-290/EUROCAE ED-120 for CPDLC supporting ACM, AMC and ACL in
airspace where ATS surveillance services are provided.
2.1.3.2.3 An ATSU that prescribes RCP 150 for CPDLC in its airspace needs to include
appropriate indications and/or procedures to enable the controller to notify all affected aircraft when
infrastructure failures result in the ground systems inability to meet its RCP allocation.
2.1.3.2.4 Data link operations that use certain subnetworks (e.g. VDL M0/A), or take place in
subnetwork transition areas (e.g. VHF fringe coverage area), may not meet the performance criteria.
2.1.4.1.1 The data link system in airspace where procedural separation is being applied, as shown
in Figure 2-2, comprises a variety of ground systems that may provide data link services to FANS 1/A
(generic) aircraft, FMC WPR aircraft and ACARS ATS aircraft.
2.1.4.1.2 The data link services improve communications, surveillance and route conformance
monitoring to support operational capabilities that enable:
a) Reduced separations, for example, in addition to navigation performance requirements, the
following reduced separations require FANS 1/A aircraft, FANS 1/A ATSU, RCP 240 and RSP 180;
1) 50 NM longitudinal separation;
2) 30 NM longitudinal separation;
2.1.4.2.1 As shown in Figure 2-2, the data link system in airspace where ATS surveillance services
are provided comprises a variety of ground systems:
a) ATN B1 ground systems, that may provide data link services to ATN B1 aircraft and
FANS 1/A-ATN B1 aircraft;
b) FANS 1/A-ATN ground systems, that may provide data link services to ATN B1 aircraft,
FANS 1/A aircraft and FANS 1/A-ATN B1 aircraft;
c) FANS 1/A ground systems, that may provide data link services to FANS 1/A aircraft,
FANS 1/A+ aircraft and FANS 1/A-ATN B1 aircraft; and
d) ACARS ATS ground systems, that may provide data link services to ACARS ATS aircraft.
Note. FANS 1/A aircraft are technically interoperable with a FANS 1/A-ATN ATSU. However,
operationally, FANS-1/A+ may be required for data link operations in applicable airspace as specified in
Regional SUPPs and/or AIP (or other appropriate publication, such as AIC or NOTAM). (refer to Table
2-1).
2.1.4.3.1 Table 2-5 provides an overview of the operational capabilities that are supported by each
of the different data link systems.
Note. In Table 2-5, the term surveillance includes conformance monitoring and conflict
detection.
2.2.1.1.1 The FANS 1/A data link system (including FANS 1/A+, FANS 1/A ADS-C and
FANS 1/A-ATN B1 defined in paragraph 2.1.2) relies on the ACARS network, which is provided and
maintained by various communication service providers (CSPs).
2.2.1.1.2 The ACARS network evolved from the need to be able to exchange messages between an
aircraft and its AOC.
2.2.1.1.3 The ACARS network consists mainly of VHF (VDL M0/A and VDL M2) and satellite
subnetworks, but also includes the HFDL subnetwork. The performance characteristics of each
subnetwork varies and its use for ATS communications will depend on the performance required for the
intended operation (refer paragraph 2.1.3).
2.2.1.1.4 While there are no technical provisions to indicate to the ATSU that an uplink message is
available for display to the flight crew, the ACARS network allows the ATSU to receive a message
assurance (MAS) indicating that an uplink message has been delivered to the aircraft, as shown in Figure
2-3.
Note. It is possible that after successful delivery of an uplink message to the aircraft, the delivery
of the associated MAS success response to the ATSU fails. Therefore, non-reception of a MAS-S by the
ATSU is not necessarily a confirmation that the uplink was not delivered to the aircraft.
ATSU 1 CSP
Uplink
Uplink
Message assurance
(MAS)
Message assurance
(MAS)
2.2.1.1.5 While there are no technical provisions to indicate to the aircraft that a downlink message
has been delivered to the ATSU and is available for display to the controller, the ACARS network allows
the aircraft to receive a network acknowledgement indicating that a downlink message has been delivered
to the CSP system, as shown in Figure 2-4.
ATSU 1 CSP
Downlink
Downlink
Network
acknowledgement
2.2.1.1.6 As the controller does not have a means to ensure that a clearance was made available for
display to the flight crew, procedures are in place to mitigate the effects of non-delivery (refer to
paragraph 4.3.1.2).
2.2.1.2.1 The ATN B1 data link system relies on the aeronautical telecommunication network
(ATN), which is provided and maintained by various communication service providers (CSPs) and/or
ANSPs.
2.2.1.2.2 The ATN was developed by ICAO to support the need for ATS communications.
2.2.1.2.3 The ATN relies only on VHF (VDL M2) to meet the performance required for the
intended operations (refer paragraph 2.1.3.2).
2.2.1.2.4 There are technical provisions, as shown in Figure 2-5 and Figure 2-6, for the sender to
ensure that a message has been delivered and made available for display to the receiver (end-to-end
acknowledgement).
Note 1. This acknowledgement mechanism is based on the use of dedicated CPDLC message
elements (e.g. UM 227 and DM 100). The ATS system (air or ground) will send a logical
acknowledgement for any incoming message as long as it is requested by the sender (a dedicated field in
each individual message allows the sender to indicate if LACK is required or not).
Note 2. In areas where logical acknowledgements are not intended to be used, the ground system
will instruct the aircraft:
ATSU 1
Uplink
Logical
Acknowledgement
(LACK)
ATSU 1
Downlink
Logical
Acknowledgement
(LACK)
2.2.2.1 Table 2-6 provides the list of air-ground data link messages that support the data link
initiation capability service. It defines a generic term for each message that will be used in this document.
It also provides the purpose and specific content for FANS 1/A and ATN B1 messages.
2.2.2.2 Table 2-7 provides the list of ground-ground data link messages that support the ground-
ground coordination for address forwarding between initiating and receiving ATSUs.
2.2.2.3 Table 2-8 provides the list of data link messages that support the CPDLC connection. It
defines a generic term for each message that will be used in this document. It also provides specific
content and purpose for FANS 1/A and ATN B1.
2.2.3.1.1 The logon is the first step in the data link process. A logon, initiated either by the flight
crew or by another ATSU, is performed prior to the ATSU establishing a CPDLC and/or ADS-C
connection. The purpose of the logon is to:
a) Provide the ATSU with the data link application context of the aircraft, namely:
1) The ATS data link applications supported by the aircraft system (e.g. CPDLC, ADS-C) and
the associated version numbers of these applications; and
2) The unique identification of the aircraft;
b) Provide the ATSU with the relevant aircraft information required to allow the ATSU to
correlate the logon information with the aircrafts corresponding flight plan.
Note 1. For FANS 1/A, the unique identification of the aircraft is the aircraft registration and/or
aircraft address; for ATN B1 the unique identification of the aircraft is the aircraft address.
Note 2. Under certain circumstances, it may be operationally desirable for an ATSU to set up an
ADS-C connection (perhaps for a single demand contract) without a preceding logon. When this is done,
correlation with the flight plan can be achieved by requesting the optional flight identification group and
checking this against the aircraft registration in the flight plan. See also section 4.5.3 for guidelines on
ADS-C connection management.
2.2.3.1.2 On receipt of a logon request, the ATSU correlates the logon information with the
relevant information in the flight plan held by the ATSU. This ensures that messages are sent to the
correct aircraft and that automation associated with ADS-C reports or CPDLC messages updates the
correct flight plan.
QU <ACARS TO address>
. <ACARS FROM address> 010000
AFD
FI AB0123/AN ST-XYZ
DT QXT POR1 010000 J59A
- AFN/FMHABC123,.ST-XYZ,DEF456,000002/FPOS30000E160000,0/FCOADS,01/
FCOATC,01<CRC>
The ATSU only uses the information in the CRC-protected portion of the ACARS
message. In the example above, the CRC portion is highlighted, and contains the
following information:
aircraft identification is ABC123 (not the AB0123 contained in the ACARS header);
aircraft registration is ST-XYZ (hyphen is removed by ATS automation per paragraph
3.1.2.1.2); and
aircraft address is DEF456.
Note. Some ATSUs may operate a ground system that does not integrate data link
capability with a flight data processing system. Under these circumstances, the ATSU
will need to ensure that the logon information is available for the controller to manually
cross-check the information with the details in the flight plan.
ATN B1 Example
The following example of a CM logon indicates the appropriate information in the CM
message to correlate the CM logon with a flight plan.
CMLogonRequest
aircraftFlightIdentification ABC123
cMLongTSAP ATN address of the aircraft CM application
(string of 18 or 19 octets), including the
aircraft address DEF456 (3 octets).
groundInitiatedApplications 1 (CMA) and 22 (PM-CPDLC)
airOnlyInitiatedApplications 1 (CMA)
facilityDesignation None
airportDeparture LFBO
airportDestination ENGM
The ATSU only uses the information in the CRC-protected portion of the message:
aircraft identification is ABC123;
aircraft address is DEF456 and is included in the cMLongTSAP; and
departure airport is LFBO (Toulouse) and destination airport is ENGM (Oslo).
Note. The facilityDesignation field would be used to require a logon to a facility
different from the one to which the logon request will be addressed. Such capability
(commonly referred to as DLIC server) is not implemented by ATN B1 systems.
2.2.3.2.1 An initial logon request is needed when the aircraft does not already have an ADS-C or
CPDLC connection, such as when:
a) The aircraft is preparing for departure; or
b) The aircraft will enter an area where data link services are available from an area where data
link services are not available; or
c) Instructed by ATC (e.g. following a failed data link transfer).
2.2.3.2.2 To perform an initial logon request, the flight crew enters the four character ICAO
identifier of the ATSU to which the logon request is to be sent and includes the following flight-specific
information:
a) Aircraft identification (same as item 7 of the flight plan);
b) Aircraft registration and/or aircraft address (same as item 18, preceded by REG and/or CODE,
of the flight plan); and
c) Departure and destination aerodromes, when required (same as items 13 and 16 of the flight
plan).
Note 1. In accordance with ICAO Doc 4444, the aircraft identification entered into the aircraft
system is either the ICAO designator for the aircraft operating agency followed by the flight identification
or the aircraft registration.
Note 2. The aircraft identification and registration may have been loaded prior to departure.
Note 3. When the aircraft identification includes a numeric component, this component matches
exactly that included in the flight plan. In other words, ABC3 does not match ABC003.
Note 4. While the ATSU identifier is only 4-characters, ATN B1 is capable of supporting up to 8
characters.
2.2.3.2.3 To avoid an automatic rejection of the logon request, the flight crew ensures that the
flight-specific information entered into the aircraft system is the same as the corresponding details filed in
the flight plan.
2.2.3.3.1 As shown in Figure 2-7, the ground system automatically responds to a logon request
with a logon response (as per Table 2-6). The logon response message provides information to the aircraft
system concerning whether:
a) The logon request was successful (e.g. could be correlated with a flight plan); or
b) The logon request was unsuccessful (e.g. could not be correlated with a flight plan). Refer to
paragraph 3.1.2.1.1 for conditions when an ATSU rejects a logon request.
2.2.3.3.2 The logon response message also provides information concerning the ATS data link
applications the ATSU supports.
ATSU
Logon
Request
Logon
Response
2.2.3.4.1 The air-ground address forwarding procedure is the process whereby one ATSU instructs
the aircraft system to initiate a logon request to another ATSU (e.g. when the flight is leaving one ATSU
where a logon had already been completed and the flight is transferred to another ATSU).
2.2.3.4.2 When triggered by a contact request, a logon request is initiated without flight crew input.
2.2.3.4.3 The CDA typically initiates address forwarding to permit a downstream or adjacent
ATSU (NDA) to establish an inactive CPDLC connection and/or an ADS contract for monitoring
purposes.
2.2.3.4.5 The messages associated with address forwarding are listed in Table 2-6, and the
sequence is depicted in Figure 2-8.
Note 1. Only FANS 1/A aircraft will send a contact response message to the initiating ATSU.
Note 2. For some ATN B1 aircraft, the contact complete message indicates a positive result even
though the logon response from the receiving ATSU indicated failure.
2.2.3.4.6 The ATSU initiating the address forwarding procedure receives an indication of the status
of the air-ground logon procedure with the specified ATSU upon receipt of the contact complete message.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Contact
Request
Contact
Response Logon
Request
Logon
Reponse
Contact
Complete
2.2.3.4.7 Where the functionality is available, an ATSU can imitate the air-ground address
forwarding procedure with a ground-ground address forwarding procedure that uses messages listed in
Table 2-7. The logon forwarding message contains the same information as a logon request, but is
transmitted by one ATSU to another as depicted in Figure 2-9.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Logon Forwarding
2.2.4.1.1 The purpose of a CPDLC connection is to allow the exchange of CPDLC messages
between an aircraft and an ATSU (active connection), and also to provide an advance connection with the
next ATSU (inactive connection). An aircraft can have a maximum of two CPDLC connections
established concurrently, each with a different ATSU. Only one CPDLC connection can be active at any
given time; any second connection is inactive.
2.2.4.2.1 An active CPDLC connection can be established upon completion of the logon procedure
if no previous CPDLC connection exists with the aircraft. An active CPDLC connection allows an ATSU
and the aircraft to exchange CPDLC messages. The ATSU with which an aircraft has an active CPDLC
connection is referred to as the CDA.
Note. In some circumstances an active connection may not be operational (e.g. the connected
ATSU is not controlling the aircraft). Refer to paragraph 4.9.4.1 and paragraph 5.2.2.2.
2.2.4.2.2 An inactive CPDLC connection can be established upon completion of the logon
procedure if a previous CPDLC connection exists with the aircraft. The ATSU and the aircraft cannot
exchange CPDLC messages when the CPDLC connection is inactive. The ATSU with an inactive
CPDLC connection is referred to as the next data authority (NDA).
2.2.4.3.1 The ATSU can only initiate a CPDLC connection request after successfully correlating
an aircraft with the associated flight plan (paragraph 2.2.3.1 refers).
2.2.4.3.2 The ATSU initiates a CPDLC connection by sending a CPDLC connection request to the
aircraft as shown in Figure 2-10.
ATSU
Connection
Request
Connection
Confirm
2.2.4.3.4 If there is an existing CPDLC connection when a CPDLC connection request is received,
the aircraft system verifies that the ATSU sending the CPDLC connection request has been specified as
the next data authority. In this case, as shown in Figure 2-11, the aircraft system:
a) Accepts the CPDLC connection request;
b) Establishes the connection, which is inactive; and
c) Responds with a CPDLC connection confirm.
Otherwise, the aircraft system rejects the CPDLC connection request by sending a connection rejection
message.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Active Connection
Inactive Connection
2.2.4.4.1 The CDA initiates the termination of the CPDLC connection by sending a termination
request message (Table 2-8 refers) to the aircraft as depicted in Figure 2-12.
Note. A ground system can only terminate an active CPDLC connection. It is not possible for the
ground system to terminate an inactive CPDLC connection.
2.2.4.4.2 On receipt of a termination request message (without any additional message elements),
the aircraft system will downlink a CPDLC termination confirmation message. The aircraft system will
consider the aircraft to be disconnected as soon as the termination confirmation message has been sent.
2.2.4.4.4 If the next data authority attempts to uplink a termination request message to the aircraft,
the aircraft system will maintain the inactive CPDLC connection and send a termination rejection
message including DM 63 NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY.
Note. Some aircraft may include the MRN in the termination rejection message.
ATSU
Termination
Request
Termination
Confirmation
2.2.4.5.1 ATSUs manage CPDLC connections to ensure that the ATSU with control for the flight
holds the active CPDLC connection, except in certain circumstances. (See paragraph 4.2.1.1). The flight
crew can also terminate a CPDLC connection. (See paragraph 5.2.5).
2.2.4.5.2 Under normal circumstances, the CDA will initiate a CPDLC transfer to an adjacent
ATSU as the aircraft transits from the current ATSU to another CPDLC-capable ATSU. These transfers
are normally automatic, without flight crew action.
Note 1. Paragraph 2.2.4.8 provides non-standard events associated with CPDLC transfers that
may require controller action per paragraph 4.2 and/or the flight crew action per paragraph 5.2.3.
Note 2. Material for CPDLC connection transfers in the document are applicable independently
of the supporting technology (e.g. FANS or ATN B1).
2.2.4.5.2.1 The CDA performs the following steps in the exact order listed to transfer a CPDLC
connection to the next ATSU:
a) Sends a NDA message to notify the aircraft of the identity of the next ATSU permitted to
establish a CPDLC connection;
b) Initiates address forwarding with the next ATSU; and
c) Sends a CPDLC termination request message when the aircraft is in the vicinity of the boundary
with the next ATSU.
2.2.4.5.2.2 Only the CDA can specify the next data authority by including the four-character ICAO
identifier for the appropriate ATSU in the NDA message, as shown in Figure 2-13.
Note. ATSU 1 may optionally send a ground-ground next authority notified message.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
2.2.4.5.2.3 When the active CPDLC connection is terminated, the aircraft will activate any inactive
connection. In this case, the next data authority becomes the CDA and is now able to exchange CPDLC
messages with the aircraft.
2.2.4.5.2.4 ATSU 1 may use the connection forwarding message described in paragraph 2.2.2.2, to
provide notification to the next ATSU that ATSU 1 has terminated its CPDLC connection, as depicted in
Figure 2-14.
Note. If the connection forwarding message is not used, then when a CPDLC connection has been
transferred between ATSUs:
a) For FANS 1/A aircraft, the new ATSU (CDA) has no indication that it has the active CPDLC
connection until a CPDLC downlink is received from the aircraft (See paragraph 2.2.4.7.3).
b) For ATN B1 aircraft, the new ATSU (CDA) has an indication that it has the active CPDLC
connection (See paragraph 2.2.4.7.2).
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Active Connection
Connection Forwarding
2.2.4.5.2.5 A successful CPDLC transfer is dependent upon the next ATSU establishing its own
CPDLC connection prior to the termination request message being received by the aircraft.
2.2.4.5.2.6 Failure of the next ATSU to establish a CPDLC connection before the termination
request message reaches the aircraft will have the following consequence:
a) The aircraft will not have CPDLC connectivity and the previous ATSU will no longer be able to
exchange CPDLC messages with the aircraft, and,
b) The first ATSU to send a CPDLC connection request message to the aircraft will become the
CDA.
Note. Some FANS 1/A aircraft may require a logon request to be completed with that ATSU
before it can accept the connection request. See Appendix F, paragraph F.14.
2.2.4.5.3 If the aircraft is entering an airspace where data link services are not provided, no NDA
message is sent, nor is the address forwarding process performed.
2.2.4.5.3.1 When the active CPDLC connection is terminated, the aircraft will no longer have a
CPDLC connection.
2.2.4.6.1 As the aircraft transits from one CPDLC-capable ATSU to another, the same CPDLC
transfer process is repeated. The cyclical nature of this process is depicted in Figure 2-15.
CPDLC connection
ATSU(N) Aircraft
ATSU(N) Aircraft
Active connection
N = N+1
2.2.4.6.2 The sequence of messages from the logon request to the completion of the CPDLC
transfer when using air-ground address forwarding is depicted in Figure 2-16.
Note. Only FANS 1/A aircraft will send Contact Response message to the initiating ATSU.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Logon Request
Logon Response
Connection Request
Connection Confirmation
Exchange of
CPDLC messages
NEXT DATA
AUTHORITY [ATSU 2]
Contact Request
Contact Response Logon Request
Logon Response
Contact Complete Connection request
Figure 2-16. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using air-ground address forwarding
2.2.4.6.3 The sequence of messages from the logon request to the completion of the CPDLC
transfer when using ground-ground address forwarding (no use of Next Authority Notified) is depicted in
Figure 2-17.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Logon Request
Logon Response
Connection Request
Connection Confirmation
Exchange of
CPDLC messages
NEXT DATA
AUTHORITY [ATSU 2]
Logon Forwarding
Connection request
Connection Confirmation
Termination Request
Termination Confirmation Exchange of
CPDLC messages
Figure 2-17. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using ground-ground address forwarding (no use of Next
Authority Notified)
2.2.4.6.4 The sequence of messages from the logon request to the completion of the CPDLC
transfer when using ground-ground address forwarding (use of Next Authority Notified) is depicted in
Figure 2-18.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Logon Request
Logon Response
Connection Request
Connection Confirmation
Exchange of
CPDLC messages
Logon Forwarding
NEXT DATA
AUTHORITY [ATSU 2]
Connection request
Connection Confirmation
Termination Request
Termination Confirmation Exchange of
CPDLC messages
Figure 2-18. Nominal sequence for initial CPDLC connection establishment and transfer of
CPDLC connection using ground-ground address forwarding (use of Next
Authority Notified)
2.2.4.7.1 CPDLC messages can only be exchanged between the aircraft and the CDA. If the ATSU
with the inactive connection uplinks a CPDLC message to the aircraft, the aircraft system rejects the
message by sending DM 63 NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY to the ATSU (Refer to Figure 2-19).
2.2.4.7.2 As soon as the CPDLC connection becomes active, ATN B1 aircraft will notify the CDA
by sending DM 99 CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY.
Note. A FANS 1/A aircraft does not provide such automated capability.
2.2.4.7.3 When connected with a FANS 1/A aircraft, the receiving ATSU can use the following
methods to confirm a CPDLC connection is active:
a) Wait until a CPDLC downlink message is received from the aircraft per paragraph 5.2.3.5; or
b) Wait until the ground-ground connection forwarding message for the flight is received from the
transferring ATSU (if in use between the ATSUs); or
ATSU
Inactive connection
2.2.4.8.1.1 Under normal circumstances, the CDA sends only a single NDA message to an aircraft.
Exceptions to this may include:
a) Following a re-route (e.g. due to weather) that affects the identity of the next ATSU whose
airspace the aircraft will enter; or
b) If the initial NDA message was not delivered to the aircraft.
2.2.4.8.1.2 When a NDA message is received, the aircraft system replaces any previous NDA
message the aircraft may have received unless the facility designation in the message is the same as the
facility designation already held by the aircraft system. If the facility designation is different, the aircraft
terminates any inactive CPDLC connection that an ATSU may have established.
Note. Some aircraft types may terminate an inactive CPDLC connection even if the facility
designation in the NDA message is the same. See Appendix F, paragraph F.3.
2.2.4.8.1.3 In Figure 2-20, the next ATSU on the aircrafts route was ATSU 2. Shortly after
ATSU 1 had commenced the CPDLC transfer sequence to ATSU 2, the aircraft was re-routed in such a
way that ATSU 3 is now the next ATSU.
ATSU 2
ATSU 3
ATSU 1
2.2.4.8.1.4 Figure 2-21 shows that ATSU 1 sends a new NDA message specifying ATSU 3 as the
next data authority. On receipt of this NDA message, the aircraft disconnects its CPDLC connection from
ATSU 2 (if it had an inactive connection). In addition, ATSU 1 initiates address forwarding for the
aircraft to ATSU 3.
2.2.4.8.1.5 In the case that ATSU 3 does not support CPDLC services, ATSU 1 requests the
aircraft to terminate the CPDLC connection with ATSU 2 by:
a) Sending a CPDLC abort request in order to terminate all connections, or
b) Alternatively, for ATN B1 aircraft, sending a new NDA message specifying that there is now
no next data authority, which will ensure that the aircraft terminates the connection with ATSU 2.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Re-route
(e.g. due to weather)
ATSU 3
2.2.4.8.2.1 Upon receipt of a CPDLC connection request, the aircraft system sends a CPDLC
connection rejection message to the next ATSU when the aircraft system receives the:
a) CPDLC connection request message from the next ATSU before the NDA message from the
CDA, as shown in Figure 2-22; or
b) NDA message designating an ATSU that is different from the ATSU sending the CPDLC
connection request, as shown in Figure 2-23.
Note 1. To prevent rejection of the CPDLC connection request:
The CDA sends the NDA message prior to initiating air-ground address forwarding to the next
ATSU (Refer to Figure 2-16),
When it is known that the ground-ground address forwarding would trigger a CPDLC connection
request by next ATSU, CDA sends the NDA message prior to initiating ground-ground address
forwarding to the next ATSU (Refer to Figure 2-17).
When it is known that the next ATSU will wait for a Next Authority Notified message prior to
initiating a CPDLC connection request, CDA can send the NDA message after completing ground-
ground address forwarding to the next ATSU (Refer to Figure 2-18).
Note 2. In addition to the connection rejection message, FANS 1/A aircraft will send DM 64,
which provides the identity of the CDA, while ATN B1 aircraft will send DM 107, which is a notification
that the ATSU is not authorized to become the next data authority.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY
[ATSU 2]
(not received
by aircraft)
Connection
Request
Connection
Rejection
ATSU 1 ATSU 3
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY
[ATSU 2]
Connection
Request
Connection
Rejection
Figure 2-23. Connection request from an ATSU not designated as the NDA
2.2.4.8.2.2 The flight crew has no indication that the CPDLC connection request has been rejected.
2.2.4.8.2.3 If the controlling ATSU sends another NDA message specifying the correct ATSU to
the aircraft, the next ATSU will need to send a subsequent CPDLC connection request to establish the
connection, as shown in Figure 2-24.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY
[ATSU 2]
(not received
by aircraft)
Connection
Request
Connection
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY Rejection
[ATSU 2]
Connection
Request
Connection
Confirm
Figure 2-24. Successful CPDLC connection following a re-send of the NDA message
2.2.4.8.3.1 Normally, on receipt of a termination request message from the CDA, the aircraft
system will only terminate the active CPDLC connection. However, if the termination request message
element is part of a multi-element message where none of the elements require a WILCO/UNABLE
(W/U) response, the aircraft system will terminate all CPDLC connections (active and inactive) by
sending abort request messages, as shown in Figure 2-25.
Note 1. Some FANS 1/A aircraft will also abort all connections when open uplinks exist when the
termination request message is received. Refer to Appendix F, paragraph F.8 for variations in aircraft
processing of open uplinks at time of transfer of communications.
Note 2. Some ATN B1 aircraft will also abort all connections when the termination request
message includes any message element other than UM 117, UM 120 and UM 135. Refer to Appendix F,
paragraph F.8 for variations in aircraft processing of open uplinks at time of transfer of communications.
Note 3. For FANS 1/A. the termination request message is normally sent as a single-element
message. Refer to paragraph 3.1.2 for ATC automated data link functions and paragraph 4.2 for
controller procedures related guidance.
Note 4. For ATN B1. the termination request message is normally sent as a single-element
message or as a multi-element message that includes UM 117 or UM 120 and UM 135. Refer to
paragraph 3.1.2 for ATC automated data link functions and paragraph 4.2 for controller procedures
related guidance.
Note 5. See Appendix A for message elements that require a W/U response.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
Termination request +
CPDLC uplink with no
W/U response attribute
Connection Connection
Abort Abort
2.2.5.1.1 CPDLC is a data link application that supports the exchange of data messages directly
between a controller and a flight crew.
2.2.5.1.2 When communicating with an aircraft that is operating within airspace beyond the range
of DCPC VHF voice communication, CPDLC is available, and local ATC procedures do not state
otherwise, the controller and flight crew would normally chose CPDLC as the means of communication.
The controller and flight crew would use voice as an alternative means of communication (e.g. VHF, HF
or SATVOICE direct or via a radio operator). However, in any case, the controller and flight crew will
determine the communication medium that they deem to be the most appropriate at any given time.
2.2.5.1.3 In airspace where both DCPC VHF voice and CPDLC communication services are
provided, and local ATC procedures do not state otherwise, the controller and flight crew will determine
the communication medium to use at any given time.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 8.3.2, requires that DCPC be established prior to the provision
of ATS surveillance services, unless special circumstances, such as emergencies, dictate otherwise. This
does not prevent the use of CPDLC for ATC communications, voice being immediately available for
intervention and to address non-routine and time critical situations.
2.2.5.2.1 The CPDLC message set consists of a set of message elements, most of which
correspond to a radiotelephony phraseology.
2.2.5.2.3 Each message element has a number of attributes associated to it, including:
a) A message number that uniquely identifies each type of message element. Uplink message
elements are prefixed UM and downlink message elements are prefixed with DM;
b) A response attribute that defines whether or not a response is required for a message element,
and, in the case of an uplink message element, the type of response required.
Note. Other attributes include the urgency and alert attributes to specify precedence in message
presentation and indication to the recipient. However, these attributes are currently not used.
2.2.5.2.4 The CPDLC message set, including the possible responses associated with each response
attribute, is included in Appendix A.
2.2.5.2.5 Table 2-9 provides examples of responses that may be required for a CPDLC uplink
message depending on its response attribute. See Appendix A, paragraph A.2 for a complete description
of the responses associated with each response attribute.
2.2.5.4.2 When a multi-element message contains at least one message element with a Y response
type, the flight crew or controller responds with a single message element response associated with the
highest precedence response type for the elements in the message (as per Table 2-10), and additionally the
message element(s) associated with the message element(s) with a Y response type.
Note. Some aircraft send all elements in a multi-element response message, others send the initial
response associated with the highest precedence response type for the elements in the message first, and
then send the message element(s) associated with the message element(s) with a Y response type.
2.2.5.4.3 Table 2-11 provides examples of the appropriate responses to various multi-element
CPDLC uplink messages.
2.2.5.5.1 A CPDLC message is open if the aircraft or ground system has not yet received a
required response.
2.2.5.6.1 Messages that are related (e.g. a CPDLC downlink request, the corresponding CPDLC
uplink clearance and the subsequent pilot response) constitute a CPDLC dialogue.
a) A CPDLC dialogue is open if any of the CPDLC messages in the dialogue are open;
b) A CPDLC dialogue is closed if all CPDLC messages in the dialogue are closed.
Note. A dialogue can be technically closed, but still be operationally open. For example, when a
DM 0 WILCO has been sent for a UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING [level], the dialogue is technically
closed, but not operationally closed until the ATSU receives the DM 37 MAINTAINING [level].
2.2.5.6.2 Figure 2-26 provides an example of the individual message and dialogue status for a
CPDLC request and clearance exchange.
ATSU
Step 1
DM9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Step 2
UM20 CLIMB TO FL370
or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL370
Step 3
DM0 WILCO
Figure 2-26. Message/dialogue status for CPDLC request and clearance exchange
2.2.5.6.3 Figure 2-27 provides an example of the individual messages and dialogue status for a
CPDLC confirmation request and report exchange.
ATSU
Step 1
UM136 CONFIRM ASSIGNED SPEED
Step 2
DM39 ASSIGNED SPEED 250KT
Figure 2-27. Message/dialogue status for CPDLC confirmation request and report exchange
2.2.5.7.1 For each CPDLC connection, the aircraft and ground systems assign every CPDLC
uplink and downlink message an identifier, known as a message identification number (MIN). The MIN
is an integer in the range 0 to 63 (inclusive). The ground system assigns the MIN for uplink messages,
and the aircraft system assigns the MIN for downlink messages.
Note. Some aircraft and ground systems assign MINs sequentially through the allowed range,
while others re-assign MINs as soon as the dialogues using them have been closed. The numbers used as
MINs by the ground and aircraft systems are entirely independent.
2.2.5.8.1 The aircraft and ground systems assign a message reference number (MRN) to a CPDLC
message when it is a response to another CPDLC message. The MRN of the response message is the
same as the MIN of the corresponding CPDLC message in the dialogue.
2.2.5.8.2 The aircraft and ground systems associate corresponding CPDLC messages within a
dialogue by their message identification numbers and message reference numbers.
2.2.5.8.3 This functionality ensures that the aircraft and ground systems associate a CPDLC
response message with the correct CPDLC message in the dialogue.
2.2.6.2 ADS-C uses various systems on board the aircraft to automatically provide aircraft
position, altitude, speed, intent and meteorological data, which can be sent in a report to an ATSU or
AOC facility ground system for surveillance and route conformance monitoring.
2.2.6.2.1 One or more reports are generated in response to an ADS contract, which is requested by
the ground system. An ADS contract identifies the types of information and the conditions under which
reports are to be sent by the aircraft. Some types of information are included in every report, while other
types are provided only if specified in the ADS contract request. The aircraft can also send unsolicited
ADS-C emergency reports to any ATSU that has an ADS contract with the aircraft.
2.2.6.2.2 An ATSU system may request multiple simultaneous ADS contracts to a single aircraft,
including one periodic and one event contract, which may be supplemented by any number of demand
contracts. Up to five separate ground systems may request ADS contracts with a single aircraft.
Note. Although the terms are similar, ADS-C and ADS-B are two different applications. In
comparison, ADS-B (PSR, SSR or any comparable ground-based system that enables the identification of
aircraft) is an ATS surveillance system. An ADS-B-capable aircraft supports ATS surveillance services
and broadcasts information at a relatively high rate, and any appropriate receiver on the ground or in
another aircraft within range can receive the information.
2.2.6.3.1 After receiving a logon request, the ATSU will need to establish ADS contract(s) with
the aircraft before it can receive any ADS-C reports. There are three types of ADS contracts:
a) Periodic contract;
b) Demand contract; and
c) Event contract.
2.2.6.3.2 The ground system can establish ADS contracts without flight crew action provided that
ADS-C in the aircraft system is not selected off. The flight crew has the ability to cancel all contracts by
selecting ADS-C off and some aircraft systems allow the flight crew to cancel an ADS contract with a
specific ATSU.
Note. The ADS-C capability on the aircraft is normally not turned off per paragraph 5.5.1. ADS
contracts are managed by ATSUs based on their surveillance requirements (refer to paragraph 4.5.2).
2.2.6.3.3.3 The ground system may permit the controller to alter the periodic reporting interval to
allow for situations where the controller desires a longer or shorter reporting interval. The controller may
select a shorter reporting interval to obtain more frequent surveillance information, for example, during an
off-route deviation or an emergency.
Note. The ANSP ensures that separation minima are applied in accordance with appropriate
standards. The ground system may prevent the controller from selecting a periodic reporting interval
that is longer than the maximum interval specified in the standard for the separation minima being
applied.
2.2.6.3.3.4 An ATSU can establish only one periodic contract with an aircraft at any one time. A
number of ATSUs can each establish their own periodic contract and specify their own conditions for the
report with the same aircraft at the same time.
2.2.6.3.3.5 A periodic contract remains in place until it is either cancelled or modified. Whenever
an ATSU establishes a new periodic contract, the aircraft system automatically replaces the previous
periodic contract with the new one.
2.2.6.3.3.6 As shown in Figure 2-28, in response to a new ADS-C periodic contract, the aircraft:
a) Sends an acknowledgement; and
b) Sends the first periodic report of the new contract.
Note. The contract acknowledgement and first ADS-C report may be transmitted in a single
downlink message.
ATSU
New periodic
contract
Contract
acknowledgement
2.2.6.3.4.1 A demand contract allows an ATSU to request a single ADS-C periodic report. A
demand contract does not cancel or modify any other ADS contracts that may be in effect with the
aircraft.
2.2.6.3.5.1 The ADS-C application also supports emergency alerting. An ADS-C emergency report
is a periodic report that is tagged as an emergency report, allowing the emergency situation to be
highlighted to ATC.
2.2.6.3.5.2 An ADS-C emergency can be triggered by the flight crew in a number of ways:
a) Manually, by selecting the ADS-C emergency function;
b) Indirectly, by triggering another type of emergency alerting system (e.g. transmission of a
CPDLC position report or selection of an SSR emergency code); and
c) Covertly.
Note. The availability of the above functionality may vary between aircraft types.
2.2.6.3.5.3 There have been reported instances of inadvertent ADS-C emergencies being
transmitted. To check for inadvertent or covert activation of the ADS-C emergency function, refer to
paragraph 4.8.3.3.
2.2.6.3.5.4 Once an ADS-C emergency has been triggered, under normal circumstances the
avionics will continue to transmit ADS-C emergency periodic reports until the flight crew de-selects the
ADS-C emergency function.
2.2.6.3.5.5 When this occurs, a cancel ADS-C emergency report is transmitted with the next
ADS-C periodic report. Depending on the current ADS-C periodic reporting interval, this may be 20-30
minutes after the flight crew has actually cancelled the emergency, as shown in Figure 2-29.
2.2.6.3.5.6 To reduce the time interval between the flight crew cancelling the ADS-C emergency
and the transmission of the cancel ADS-C emergency report, a recommended practice is to reduce the
ADS-C reporting interval (refer to paragraph 4.8.2.5). This also provides enhanced situational awareness
for an aircraft that is potentially in an emergency situation. Refer paragraph 4.5.4.
ATSU 1 ATSU 2
ADS-C ADS-C
emergency emergency
report report
New ADS-C contract
(reduced reporting
interval)
Flight crew cancels the
ADS-C non- ADS-C emergency
emergency
report
It may be some time before
ATSU2 receives a cancellation
of the ADS-C emergency
ADS-C non-
emergency
report
2.2.6.3.6.1 An event contract allows an ATSU to request an ADS-C report whenever a specific
event occurs. An ATSU can establish only one event contract with an aircraft at any one time. However,
the event contract can contain multiple event types. These types of optional events include:
a) Waypoint change event (WCE);
b) Level range deviation event (LRDE);
c) Lateral deviation event (LDE); and
d) Vertical rate change event (VRE).
2.2.6.3.6.2 As shown in Figure 2-30, in response to a new ADS-C event contract, the aircraft
separately sends an acknowledgement and then an ADS-C report(s) is transmitted only after one of the
specified events occurs.
ATSU
Contract
acknowledgement
Event
triggered
ADS-C event report
2.2.6.3.6.3 An event contract remains in effect until the ATSU cancels it or until the event(s) used
to trigger the report occurs. The waypoint change event contract will trigger a report for all waypoint
changes. All other event contracts will trigger a report on the first occurrence and then, if necessary, the
ATSU will need to request a new event contract indicating all desired event types.
2.2.6.3.6.4.1 The aircraft system sends a WCE report when a change occurs to the Next and/or
Next + 1 waypoint (due to a flight plan change or waypoint sequence) in the FMS.
2.2.6.3.6.4.2 As shown in Figure 2-31, when the aircraft sequences MICKY, the Next and Next + 1
waypoints contained in the FMS change. This results in sending a WCE report to all ATSUs that have an
event contract containing a WCE with this aircraft.
Next Next + 1
Before sequencing MICKY MICKY PLUTO
After sequencing MICKY PLUTO MINNY
2.2.6.3.6.4.3 Other events that may cause the aircraft system to send a WCE report include:
a) The flight crew executing a clearance direct to a waypoint (i.e. next waypoint is changed);
2.2.6.3.6.4.4 A waypoint change event report contains the following ADS-C groups:
a) Basic group; and
b) Predicted route group.
2.2.6.3.6.5.1 The ATSU specifies the LRDE by defining the lower and upper limits of the level
range.
2.2.6.3.6.5.2 For example, in Figure 2-32, the LRDE has been defined with a lower limit of FL368
and an upper limit of FL372.
370
2.2.6.3.6.5.3 The aircraft system sends a LRDE report when the aircrafts flight level is outside the
level range tolerances defined in the ADS-C event contract (Figure 2-33).
LRDE report
370
2.2.6.3.6.6.1 The ATSU specifies the lateral deviation event by defining a lateral deviation
threshold, which is a maximum off-route distance either side of the route as specified by the ATSU. It is
not possible to define different distances on each side of the route.
2.2.6.3.6.6.2 For example, in Figure 2-34, the lateral deviation event has been defined to be
triggered for a lateral deviation threshold of greater than 5NM either side of the route.
5NM
DAFFY PLUTO
5NM
2.2.6.3.6.6.3 The lateral deviation event is triggered when the lateral distance between the aircrafts
actual position and its expected position, as defined in the aircraft active flight plan, exceeds the lateral
deviation threshold defined in the ADS-C event contract (Figure 2-35).
LDE report
5NM
DAFFY PLUTO
5NM
2.2.6.3.6.6.5 As shown in Figure 2-36, after the offset has been activated, the aircraft system
compares the current position of the aircraft (on route) with the expected position of the aircraft on the
offset route , and concludes that it is off route by the intervening distance. If this off-route distance
exceeds the lateral deviation threshold, the aircraft will transmit a lateral deviation event report,
containing the current position of the aircraft .
LDE report
5NM
1
DAFFY PLUTO
5NM
10NM
2 OFFSET PATH
2.2.6.3.6.6.6 As shown in Figure 2-37, LDE reports are based on deviations from the aircraft active
flight plan. If the aircraft active flight plan is different to the flight plan held by the ATSU, and the aircraft
remains within the lateral deviation threshold (as defined by the ADS contract) of the aircraft active flight
plan, no lateral deviation event report will be triggered.
Aircraft
active
M flight plan
5N
LDE report
M
5N
Flight plan
held by
ATSU
DAFFY PLUTO
Figure 2-37. No lateral deviation event report if active route is different to route held by ATSU
2.2.6.3.6.6.7 Once an aircraft has downlinked a lateral deviation event report, no further deviations
will trigger another report until the ATSU re-establishes an ADS-C event contract containing a lateral
deviation event.
2.2.6.3.6.6.8 A lateral deviation event report contains the ADS-C basic group only.
2.2.6.3.6.7.1 The vertical rate change event is triggered in one of two ways:
a) Positive vertical rate: aircraft`s rate of climb is greater than the vertical rate threshold; or
b) Negative vertical rate: aircraft`s rate of descent is greater than the vertical rate threshold.
Note. The vertical rate change event does not detect a reduction in either the climb or descent
rate.
2.2.6.3.6.7.2 A vertical rate change event report contains the following ADS-C groups:
a) Basic group; and
b) Earth reference group.
2.2.6.3.7.3 The flight crew is able to terminate ADS-C connections, which in turn cancels ADS
contracts. This capability is used in accordance with guidelines provided in paragraph 5.5.
2.2.6.4.1 The aircraft system sends specific aircraft data in different groups of an ADS-C report.
Each group contains different types of data. An ADS-C event report contains only some of the groups,
which are fixed. The ADS-C periodic report can contain any of the ADS-C groups, which the ATSU
specifies in the contract request.
Navigation TCAS
system status
redundancy
Time
stamp
DAFFY
DUMBO SPEDY
Figure
of merit MICKY
Altitude
Present position
DAFFY
Aircraft DUMBO SPEDY
identification MICKY
DAFFY
Vertical rate DUMBO SPEDY
MICKY
DAFFY
Vertical rate DUMBO SPEDY
MICKY
DAFFY
Aircraft address DUMBO SPEDY
(24 bit code) MICKY
DAFFY
Temperature DUMBO SPEDY
MICKY
Next
Next + 1 DAFFY
1500S14211E SPEDY
1515S14425E
Position, time interval and
predicted altitude
Position and
predicted altitude
DAFFY
DUMBO SPEDY
MICKY
1505S15715E
093/175
090/195
SPEDY
107/120
No planned change in speed,
altitude, or direction = Intermediate Intent Points
Position (bearing/distance),
projected altitude, and
projected time interval
2.2.6.5.1 The contents of the various ADS-C groups are depicted in the figures identified in
paragraph 2.2.6.4.2.
Note 1. Up to 10 points can be included in the intermediate projected intent group. For a point to
qualify to be included in the intermediate projected intent group, the point needs to be:
a) between the current position and the fixed projected point; and
b) associated with a planned speed, altitude or route change.
Note 2. The intermediate projected intent group may include a FMS generated point, for example,
the top of descent (TOD) point (planned altitude change), which does not correspond to any waypoint in
the flight plan.
2.2.6.5.3 The time stamp is expressed in seconds past the last hour
2.2.6.5.4 Estimates are expressed as estimated time intervals (in seconds) from the time stamp at
the present position in the basic group.
2.2.6.6.1 The ATSU may use an ADS-C report for a variety of purposes. These include:
2.2.6.6.2.1 The ATSU may use information from the basic group, the intermediate projected intent
group, the fixed projected intent group and the predicted route group for route conformance monitoring.
2.2.6.6.2.2 The ATSU can compare information from the predicted route group, the fixed projected
intent group or intermediate projected intent group against the expected route in the flight plan to provide
an indication to the controller when a discrepancy exists.
Note. To prevent nuisance indications, route conformance monitoring may include tolerances,
consistent with safety criteria, when comparing the reported data against the expected route (e.g. to
accommodate 1 or 2 nm strategic lateral offset procedures).
2.2.6.6.2.3 A ground system supporting ATS or AOC can specify periodic and event contracts
differently from other ground systems, such as:
a) Different ADS-C groups as shown in Figure 2-47;
b) Different periodic reporting interval as shown in Figure 2-48; and
c) Different types of event contracts as shown in Figure 2-49.
d route
Basic Predicte rth
group Ea
group +
n ce group
ATSU 1 refere ATSU 3
nt
d inte e
cte iat
p roje ermed roup All
g rou
ed t g
Fix p + in intent p s
u
gro ected
j
pro
20 mi
n repor eports
ts 15 min r ATSU 3
ATSU 1
14
rts m in r
repo epo
min rts
24
Figure 2-48. Multiple ADS periodic contracts with different reporting intervals
LRDE
WCE
LRDE + ATSU 3
ATSU 1
E All
WC eve
E, nts
, LD
DE
LR
2.2.6.6.3.1 The ATSU may use level range deviation events (LRDE) to monitor an aircraft
conformance with cleared level.
2.2.6.6.4.1 The ATSU may use the vertical rate change event (VRE) to assist in the provision of
Alerting service. The VRE can be used in this context to provide an indication of an uncontrolled descent
from cruise level where flight crew incapacity prevents activation of the ADS-C emergency.
Note. A VRE of negative 5000 feet per minute (descent rate) is suggested as a suitable value.
2.2.6.6.5.1 The ATSU may use the lateral deviation event (LDE) to detect deviations from the
aircraft active flight plan.
2.2.6.6.6.1 The ATSU may use the Mach number in the air reference group to monitor
conformance with filed flight plan speed and provide updates as required.
2.2.6.6.7.1 The ADS-C basic report contains a figure of merit (FOM) that provides the navigational
accuracy of position data in the basic report in accordance with Table 2-13.
2.2.6.6.8.1 While ADS-C reporting intervals are generally referred to in whole minutes, they are
not actually defined that way in the ADS contract. The required ADS-C reporting interval is uplinked to
the aircraft in one byte (eight bits) of data, in accordance with Figure 2-50.
Bit numbers
8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Scaling Rate
factor
2.2.6.6.8.2 For example, to establish a 40 minute reporting interval, the SF would equal 64
seconds and the rate would equal 36. The actual reporting interval specified in the ADS contract would
be 64 x (1 + 36) = 2368 seconds (39 minutes 28 seconds).
2.2.7.1.2 The operator configures these aircraft to send ACARS position reports to their
aeronautical operational control (AOC) facility for flight monitoring. Additional ground-based
functionality can reformat the ACARS position report and forward it to an ATSU via AFTN as a
replacement for voice position reports.
2.2.7.1.3 The method of delivery for the ACARS position report from an aircraft to an ATSU is
referred to as flight management computer waypoint position reporting (FMC WPR).
2.2.7.2 Description
2.2.7.2.1 In some airspace, the aircraft sends the FMC waypoint position report to a central FMC
waypoint reporting system (CFRS) or to the operators AOC host computer. The CFRS or operators
AOC host computer converts the position report to a suitable format and delivers it via AFTN to
appropriate ATSUs. A CFRS may also convert the report to standard AFTN format and deliver it to
appropriate meteorological facilities to support weather forecasting.
Note. Because there is no format defined, formats may vary slightly between ATSUs. The CFRS or
AOC host computer should support different formats for different ATSUs.
2.2.7.2.2 Appendix E indicates which of the above two approaches each ATSU uses.
2.2.7.3.3 An FMC WPR can be initiated automatically or manually as prescribed by flight deck
procedures (Refer to paragraphs 3.2, 3.4, and 5.6.4).
2.2.7.3.4 An operator participating in FMC WPR ensures that the FMC WPR:
a) Is generated at each ATC waypoint of a cleared route; and
b) Contains data only for an ATC waypoint.
3.1.1.1 The ANSP should ensure a validation process that confirms the integrity of their
equipment and procedures meets system integrity requirements. This process should include:
a) A system safety assessment which demonstrates that the service provision meets the safety
objectives. The ANSP should conduct a system safety assessment through a functional hazard analysis or
a documented system safety case for initial implementation as well as for future enhancements. These
assessments should include:
1) Identifying failure conditions;
2) Assigning levels of criticality;
3) Determining probabilities for occurrence; and
4) Identifying mitigating measures;
b) Integration test results confirming interoperability for operational use of the aircraft and ground
systems; and
c) Confirmation that the ATS operation manuals are compatible with those of adjacent providers.
3.1.1.2 Following the safety assessment, the ANSP should institute measures through automation
or procedures to mitigate the identified failure conditions. For example:
a) If the ANSP uses integrated measurement tools for the purpose of determining separation, they
may need to publish limitations on the use of such tools for establishing and monitoring separation
standards;
b) If an ANSP receives both an ADS-C and a CPDLC position report containing ETA that differ
by 3 minutes or more, the controller should request confirmation of the estimate for the waypoint in
question; and
c) To fulfill the requirements of Annex 10, paragraph 8.2.8, the controller should be provided with
automation and/or procedures to ensure that the appropriate ATC unit has established an active CPDLC
connection with the aircraft. Refer to Appendix E for the mitigating measures used for confirming CDA.
3.1.1.3 The ANSP should ensure that it provides communication services that meet the
performance specifications provided at Appendix B and Appendix C, and that the contracted CSP meets
its performance allocations. The risks represented by the requirements are regarded as being minimum for
the specified ATS function to maintain operational efficiency while meeting its required safety needs.
3.1.1.4 If the ANSP uses free text messages, it should include an evaluation of the effects
associated with the use of free text messages in operational and system safety assessments. When the
intent/use of the free text message impacts seamless operations, the ANSP should globally coordinate the
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free text message to define the operational contents, format, and use as a new standardized free text
message. The standardized free text messages are provided in Appendix A, paragraph A.5.
a) The results of an operational assessment may conclude that a free text message needs to be pre-
formatted and readily available for the flight crew or the controller because it is too workload intensive to
manually enter the message. Pre-formatted free text messages should only be selected from standardized
free text messages, which are appropriate for the intended use.
b) When the ANSP establishes procedures that require the controller or flight crew to use a free
text message element to mimic ICAO Doc 4444 standard message elements, the ANSP should apply the
following criteria:
1) The ground system should apply any range, resolution, and units of measure restrictions
prior to use of the message;
2) The ground system and aircraft system should provide a human interface for message
composition and recognition of free text messages consistent with operational, safety, and performance
requirements associated with use of the free text message;
3) The ATSU should not use free text to mimic an ICAO Doc 4444 message element with a
W/U response attribute, unless the free text is combined with a standard message element with a W/U
response attribute as part of a multi-element message (see paragraph 4.3.6); and
4) When a free text message (with a R response attribute) is used to mimic a message element
with a Y response attribute, the ATSU should provide procedures and/or automation to ensure the
appropriate operational response is received.
Note. The ground system will technically close the uplink message when it receives the R response
from the aircraft.
3.1.1.5 The ANSP should conduct trials with aircraft to ensure that the system meets the
requirements for interoperability such as is defined for FANS 1/A in RTCA DO-258A/EUROCAE
ED-100A. Refer to paragraph 2.1 for applicable interoperability standards for the different data link
system.
3.1.1.6 The ANSP should develop appropriate procedures or other means to:
a) Respond to CPDLC downlink message elements defined in Appendix A (See paragraph 3.1.4.2
for publication of unsupported downlink messages);
b) Ensure that data are correct and accurate, including any changes, and that security of such data
is not compromised;
c) Notify adjacent ATSUs of system failures, software upgrades (or downgrades) or other changes,
which may impact them. Such notification procedures will normally be detailed in letters of agreement
between adjacent units; and
d) Ensure that the ATSU only establishes an ADS contract with aircraft for which that ATSU has
direct control or monitoring responsibility.
Note. An ATSU may need to establish ADS contracts with aircraft operating in their area of
responsibility for purposes other than direct control or monitoring (e.g. testing of ground system software
before operational release).
3.1.2.1.1 To ensure that CPDLC messages are sent only to aircraft for which the ATSU has a flight
plan, the ATSU should reject a logon request if:
a) There is no flight plan for the flight;
b) The flight plan does not contain the aircraft registration/address; or
c) The aircraft registration/address in the logon request message does not match the aircraft
registration/address in the flight plan.
3.1.2.1.2 Hyphens or spaces contained in an aircraft registration are not valid characters in the
ICAO flight plan and therefore are not present in the filed flight plan. The ground system should be
configured to prevent the logon request being rejected due to hyphens or spaces being included in the
aircraft registration sent in the logon request message, but not in the flight plan.
3.1.2.2.1 To ensure transfers of CPDLC between FANS 1/A and ATN B1 areas, the ANSP should
ensure its FANS 1/A and ATN B1 ATSUs comply with chapter 4 in ED-154A/DO-305A standard.
Note 1 Compliance with the full ED-154A/DO-305A standard is not required to support automatic
CPDLC transfer. Only one particular requirement in chapter 4 applies to the T-ATSU:
a) FANS 1/A T-ATSU ground systems include, in the contact request message, a specific 7-character
ACARS address based on the 4-character ICAO identifier of the ATN B1 R-ATSU combined with ATN.
b) ATN B1 and FANS 1/A-ATN B1 T-ATSU ground systems include, in the contact request message,
a specific ATN address as a binary string made of zeroes.
Note 2 When ED-154A/DO-305A chapter 4 applies for a given transition, the T-ATSU behavior is
systematic whatever the aircraft type.
Note 3. Table 3-1 identifies the different combinations of transfers that can occur between two
different types of ground systems and specifies when ED-154A/DO-305A chapter 4 applies to the
T-ATSU, in addition to the standards per Table 2-1.
Table 3-1. Supporting technology for transfers between FANS 1/A and ATN B1
3.1.2.3.1 To prevent the aircraft rejecting the CPDLC connection request message from the
receiving ATSU, the CDA should ensure completion of the NDA process prior to initiating address
forwarding to the next ATSU.
3.1.2.3.3 If the ground system does not receive the contact complete message within a specified
time (e.g. 15 minutes) from sending the contact request message, it should provide an indication to the
controller. Refer to paragraph 4.2.2.3 for associated controller procedures.
3.1.2.3.4 If open uplink or downlink messages exist for the aircraft, the ground system should
provide indication to the controller and confirm messages are closed prior to sending the CPDLC
termination request message.
3.1.2.3.5 When a CPDLC connection cannot be established by any ATSU, the ground system
should indicate to the controller at that ATSU that no connection has been established.
3.1.2.4.1 The ground system should provide a clear indication to the controller of downlinked
messages that contain any of the message elements from the emergency message elements (see Appendix
A, paragraph A.4, for the list of emergency message elements.)
3.1.2.4.2 When the ground system receives an emergency-mode ADS-C report, it should present it
to the controller. If a periodic contract is active, the emergency report will be transmitted at the existing
periodic interval. Otherwise, the interval will default to a value determined by the aircraft system (see
Appendix F, paragraph F.10). Only the flight crew can cancel the emergency mode (see paragraph 4.8.3
for associated controller procedures).
3.1.2.5.2 The ground system should only assign a MRN to an uplink message that is responding to
a downlink message with the associated MIN and the downlink message requires a response. If the
ATSU sends an uplink message with a MRN and the downlink message with the associated MIN did not
require a response, the aircraft system will discard the uplink message and not display it to the flight crew.
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Note. If an uplink message is discarded for the reasons described in paragraph 3.1.2.5.1 or
paragraph 3.1.2.5.2, the aircraft system will send an error message to the ground system indicating that
the MRN was not recognized.
3.1.2.5.3 If a downlink message contains a message element that is not supported, then the ATSU
should:
a) For a FANS 1/A ATSU, send CPDLC free text UM 169u MESSAGE NOT SUPPORTED BY
THIS ATS UNIT rather than terminating the connection; or
b) For an ATN B1 ATSU, send UM 162 MESSAGE NOT SUPPORTED BY THIS ATS UNIT
or SERVICE UNAVAILABLE.
Note. For UM 162, some FANS 1/A aircraft may display SERVICE UNAVAILABLE, which may be
confusing to the flight crew. An ATN B1 aircraft will display MESSAGE NOT SUPPORTED BY THIS
ATS UNIT.
3.1.2.5.4 ATSUs may automate the sending of the CPDLC termination request message, based
upon the estimated time or location the aircraft is expected to cross the boundary. Refer to paragraph
2.2.4 and paragraph 4.2 for the proper sequence and timing for sending the CPDLC termination request
message and associated controller procedures. Refer to paragraph 3.1.4.8 for guidance on detailing the
parameters for this operation in interfacility agreements.
3.1.2.6.1 An ATSU may implement automation to support use of a message latency monitor on the
aircraft. The extent to which automation supports controller procedures that use the message latency
monitor is a local matter.
3.1.2.6.2 The use of the message latency monitor, available on all ATN B1 aircraft and
FANS 1/A+ aircraft, can provide the ANSP a means to mitigate the effects of a delayed CPDLC message
that is delivered to the aircraft, and contributes to meeting the safety requirements for the ATSU and the
aircraft. Refer to Appendix B for specific safety requirements associated with each RCP specification.
3.1.2.6.3 The ANSP should consider the effects of a delayed CPDLC message in accordance with
paragraph 3.1.1.1 and identify mitigating measures.
Note 1. A FANS 1/A ATSU or a FANS 1/AATN B1 ATSU, providing CPDLC services to
FANS 1/A aircraft, does not use the message latency monitor. To mitigate the effects of a delayed
CPDLC message, the ATSU may apply the following alternative mitigation measures:
a) Specify, in a contract or service agreement with the communication service provider, provisions
that would preclude the delivery of a delayed CPDLC message to an aircraft; or
b) Perform the procedure from paragraph 4.3.1.2 a); or
c) For FANS 1/AATN B1 ATSU, perform the procedure from paragraph 4.3.1.2 c).
Note 2. An ATN B1 ATSU or a FANS 1/A-ATN B1 ATSU that provides CPDLC services to
ATN B1 aircraft may use the message latency monitor as mitigation against a delayed CPDLC message.
The procedures are applicable only in the European Region and are described in Appendix E, paragraph
E.4.3.2.
3.1.2.7.1 When more than one ADS-C report for the same waypoint (or position) are received, the
ground system should update the flight data with the first report and provide an indication to the
controller if there are significant discrepancies in subsequent reports.
3.1.2.7.2 When the time stamp in the basic group is determined to be invalid for the position in an
ADS-C report, the ground system should not use it to update any flight data.
Note 1. When the time stamp is invalid, the figure of merit (FOM) will be set to 0 and any value
could be expected in the basic group.
Note 2. The time stamp in a FANS 1/A ADS-C report is provided only as seconds past the last
hour. Therefore, when an ADS-C report is received with a time stamp greater than the current ground
system seconds past the hour, the time stamp in the report may be related to the previous hour (possibly
even the previous day/month/year). The ground system may need to determine the full time stamp (i.e.
including hours/day/month/year) for the ADS-C report when determining the validity of the time stamp
with the associated position in the ADS-C report.
3.1.2.7.3 If the aircraft is in heading select mode and the aircraft passes abeam an ATC waypoint
by more than a defined distance, the FMS will not sequence this or subsequent waypoints. Consequently,
the aircraft will not send an ADS-C waypoint change event report. However, if the aircraft sends an
ADS-C periodic report with a predicted route group, the NEXT waypoint data in the report will continue
to indicate the waypoint that was passed. As a result, the ground system could use invalid data for display
of the aircraft position or extrapolating the correct route for the aircraft. Refer to paragraph 5.6.1.1 for
flight crew procedures.
Note. When the aircraft is in heading select mode, the intent and predicted route information
transmitted by the aircraft will contain the next waypoint in the aircraft active flight plan regardless of
the actual position and heading of the aircraft. Predicted information is based on the FMS intent, which
may not necessarily reflect the intentions of the flight crew.
3.1.2.8.1 The CPDLC standard provides a [Frequencysatchannel] variable that is intended for
ATSUs to send satellite voice telephone numbers in MONITOR and CONTACT messages (UM 117 to
UM 122). However, the decoding of this variable varies by aircraft type. Therefore, the ATSU should
not use this variable in these messages unless the ground system can determine the appropriate decoding
in use by the receiving aircraft and encode the uplink accordingly.
3.1.3.1 The CSP should meet the performance criteria for communication services, in accordance
with Appendix B and Appendix C.
3.1.3.2 If an aircraft generated downlink message passes all validation criteria, the CSP should
send an acknowledgement (ACK) to the aircraft and deliver the message to the address identified in the
downlink message.
Note. If the message is not delivered to the address identified in the downlink message, the CSP
should not send an acknowledgement (ACK) to the aircraft.
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3.1.3.3 For those situations when a CSP cannot continue to provide data communications, it
should inform ANSPs and operators in accordance with established coordination procedures.
Note. A CSP that holds a contract with an operator per paragraph 3.2.1.8 but not with the ANSP
should notify the ANSP when such situations occur and that operator is conducting data link operations
in the ANSPs airspace.
3.1.3.4 In the event of a centralized ADS-C (CADS) failure, the CSP for the CADS service
should inform ATS.
3.1.3.5 In the event of a CFRS failure, the CSP for the CFRS service should inform ATS.
3.1.4.1 The ANSP should notify operators of data link services using the AIP (or other
appropriate publication). Notification includes:
a) The ICAO 4-letter location indicator assigned to the ATSU serving the airspace;
b) Logon address, The logon address should preferably match the 4-letter location indicator. The
ANSP should ensure that the logon address for the ATSU serving the airspace is provided on the
appropriate aeronautical charts (ICAO Annex 4);
c) Applications, including for each application; application name, version interoperability
coverage, scheduled service, shutdowns, and information/alert bulletins;
d) Differences between national regulations and practices, and related ICAO SARPs and
procedures;
e) Requirements for use, for example:
1) Procedures for initiation - When an ATSU is unable to accept a logon request sent between
15 and 25 minutes prior to either the ETD or the estimate for entering its airspace, the ANSP should
publish in appropriate AIP (or other appropriate publication) the criteria for when a logon request will be
accepted. Refer to paragraph 2.2.3.1.2;
2) ADS-C and CPDLC position reporting requirements;
Note. The AIP may specify that ADS-C reports may fulfill all normal position reporting
requirements. Refer to paragraph 5.6.3 for position reporting guidelines in an ADS-C environment.
3) Supporting reduced separations, re-routes, tailored arrival and associated RCP and/or RSP
specification(s); and
4) Any required functionality, such as the message latency monitor provided by FANS 1/A+
aircraft (Refer to paragraph 3.1.2.6); and
f) Flight plan form and submission requirements.
3.1.4.2 The ANSP should support all downlink message elements as defined in Appendix A,
unless the ANSP publishes the differences in the appropriate regional/State supplement along with
procedures for handling unsupported message elements.
Note 1. Emergency messages, as a minimum, are displayed to the controller per paragraph
3.1.2.4.
3.1.4.3 An ANSP may suspend ADS-C, FMC WPR and/or CPDLC use (including trials) for the
control area under its jurisdiction. Notification to affected ATSUs should be carried out in accordance
with coordination requirements specified in applicable interfacility agreements.
3.1.4.4 The ANSP should issue a timely NOTAM for scheduled and/or extended outages of the
ADS-C or FMC WPR service and advise the operators to conduct position reporting via CPDLC or voice
communications.
3.1.4.5 When an ANSP suspends CPDLC operations or when a planned system shutdown of the
communications network or the ATS system occurs, the ANSP should publish a NOTAM to inform all
affected parties of the shutdown period and advise operators to use voice communications during that
time. The ANSP should ensure procedures are established for the ATSU to notify flight crews by voice
or CPDLC of any imminent loss of CPDLC service.
3.1.4.6 In the event of an unexpected outage of ADS-C service, the ANSP should establish
interfacility agreements with other ATSUs concerned and issue a NOTAM if required to inform affected
parties.
3.1.4.7 In the event of an unexpected outage of CPDLC service, or if an ATSU suspends CPDLC
operations without prior notice, the ANSP should:
a) Inform aircraft currently in communication with the ATSU of the loss of CPDLC service;
b) Inform other ATSUs concerned;
c) Specifically advise whether the outage also affects ADS-C service; and
d) Issue a NOTAM, if required.
3.1.4.8 When one or more ANSPs provide CPDLC service with adjoining ATSUs, the ANSP(s)
should establish interfacility agreements to allow the uninterrupted transfer of the CPDLC connection.
The interfacility agreements should include:
a) The time or location at which address forwarding occurs taking into consideration any
automation requirements;
b) The time at which CPDLC termination request message is sent (see paragraph 3.1.2.5.4
regarding related ATC automation and paragraph 4.1.2 for associated ATC procedures) taking into
consideration;
1) Sufficient time to allow the NDA (if established) to establish an active CPDLC connection
prior to the aircraft crossing the common boundary; and
2) Sufficient time to prevent an inappropriate active CPDLC connection from continuing with
an aircraft while it is transiting airspace where CPDLC is not available.
3.1.4.9 When an ATSU will only have control of a CPDLC-capable aircraft for a relatively short
duration, the ANSP may establish procedures in appropriate interfacility agreements to coordinate the
transfer of communications for the aircraft among the controlling and the affected ATSUs. Refer to
paragraph 4.2.4.
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3.1.4.10 The ANSP should establish interfacility agreements, as appropriate, to ensure that
adjacent FIRs can establish ADS contracts to monitor aircraft in the vicinity of the common boundary.
3.1.4.11 When CPDLC is used to assign frequencies, the ANSP should establish the frequencies
to be used by interfacility agreements.
3.1.4.12 If the message latency monitor described in paragraph 3.1.2.6 is used, the ANSP should
establish interfacility agreements, as necessary, to ensure that its use or non-use is consistent with data
link operations in airspace controlled by any of the adjacent ATSUs.
3.1.5.2 The ANSP should establish end-to-end system monitoring in accordance with the
guidelines provided in Appendix D. The guidelines aim to ensure end-to-end system integrity through
post-implementation monitoring, identifying, reporting and tracking of problems, and corrective action.
Note. The guidelines presented herein do not replace the ATS incident reporting standards and
guidelines, as specified in ICAO Doc 4444, Appendix 4; ICAO Air Traffic Services Planning Manual
(Doc 9426), Chapter 3; or applicable State regulations, affecting the parties directly involved in a
potential ATS incident.
3.1.5.3 The ANSP and its CSP(s) should retain records for at least 30 days to allow for
accident/incident investigation purposes. The ANSP and CSPs should make these records available for
air safety investigative purposes on demand. These recordings should allow replaying of the situation and
identifying the messages that the ATSU sent or received.
3.2.1.1 An operator intending to use CPDLC or ADS-C service should obtain an operational
authorization with the State of registry or State of the operator, if required, in accordance with their rules
and means of compliance. This operational authorization should address flight crew training and
qualification, maintenance, MEL, user modifiable software, service agreements with the CSP, and
procedures for submitting problem reports and data to the regional/State monitoring agencies. The
operator should also ensure that aircraft equipment has been approved for the intended use per
interoperability standards (e.g. FANS 1/A or ATN B1), described in paragraph 2.1.2, performance
specifications (e.g. RCP 240 or RCP 400), described in paragraph 2.1.3, and in accordance with
airworthiness requirements and related means of compliance.
3.2.1.2 The operator is not required to obtain an operational authorization to use FMC WPR.
However, the operator should ensure that the aircraft equipment has been approved by the State of
3.2.1.3 The operator should establish policy and procedures for flight crews and operational staff
involved in data link operations, and incorporate them in appropriate operations manuals. The operations
manuals should include:
a) Procedures for use of the data link system specific to the aircraft type in accordance with
operating manuals provided by the aircraft or system manufacturer;
Note. See Appendix F, paragraph F.4, for aircraft-specific display of responses and
acknowledgements to CPDLC messages and any constraints on processing these responses and
acknowledgements.
b) Procedures for the data link operations taking into account the guidance provided in Chapter 5
and Chapter 6, as necessary;
c) Minimum equipment lists (MEL) modifications (if required); and
d) Flight crew and operational staff procedures, including procedures for establishing and
maintaining voice communications (including any required SELCAL check(s)) with every ATSU along
the route of flight.
3.2.1.4 The operator should ensure the flight crews and operational staff (e.g. dispatcher)
receives appropriate training in accordance with Annex 1 and Annex 6 to the Convention on International
Civil Aviation.
3.2.1.5 If applicable, the operator should ensure the operational staff is trained in data link
operations. This training should include:
a) Description of the data link system, including applications, network and subnetworks;
b) Flight planning requirements for data link flights;
c) Implications of flights departing under minimum equipment list (MEL) relief; and
d) Implications of planned and unplanned network outages on data link operations.
3.2.1.6 From time to time aircraft manufacturers release new software which will often rectify in
service issues and may add increased functionally. The operator should update their software as new
releases become available to ensure best possible performance.
3.2.1.7 The operator should initially coordinate with its CSP(s) to initiate ground system
configuration for its aircraft. In operations involving CFRS, to ensure FMC WPR downlinks are properly
routed to the appropriate CFRS system(s), the operator should coordinate with their CSP(s) to configure
for routing their FMC WPRs to the appropriate CFRS system(s).
3.2.1.8 The operator should ensure that their CSP(s) meets the performance criteria for
communication services, in accordance with Appendix B and Appendix C, and notifies them and
appropriate ANSPs when data communication services as prescribed for the intended operations cannot
be provided.
3.2.1.10 The operator should provide flight operations and the flight crew with procedures, as
appropriate, when the following occurs:
a) The operator is notified of data link system failures per paragraph 3.2.1.8; or
b) The AOC system or aircraft equipment fails such that the aircraft capability can no longer meet
the performance specifications (Appendix B and Appendix C) prescribed for the intended operation.
3.2.1.11 The operator may be required to make special arrangements with an ATSU for the
purposes of undertaking trials using ATC data link equipment.
3.2.2.1 The operator should indicate their intention to participate in data link operations by
contacting the appropriate regional/State monitoring agency and providing the following information
thirty days in advance:
a) Operator name;
b) Operator contact person; and
c) The appropriate 8-letter aeronautical fixed telecommunication network (AFTN) address(es) if
the operator requires receipt of converted ADS-C waypoint change event reports or FMC waypoint
position reports.
3.2.2.2 If any of the information provided in paragraph 3.2.2.1 changes, the operator should
advise the appropriate regional/State monitoring agency.
3.2.2.3 The operator should establish procedures to report to the appropriate regional/State
monitoring agency, as soon as practicable, any problems its flight crews and dispatchers have with data
link operations.
Note. Filing a report with regional/State monitoring agencies does not replace the ATS incident
reporting procedures and requirements, as specified in ICAO Doc 4444, Appendix 4; ICAO Doc 9426,
Chapter 3; or applicable State regulations affecting parties involved in a potential ATS incident.
3.3.1 General
3.3.1.1 When filing data link capability, the operator should ensure that the planned use of data
link for the flight will be in accordance with regulations, policies and procedures applicable in individual
3.3.1.2 The operator should ensure that the proper information is included in the ICAO flight
plan.
Note. Refer to ICAO Doc 4444, Appendix 2, for flight plan requirements.
3.3.2.1 In Item 10 of the flight plan, the operator should insert one or more of the descriptors, as
appropriate, listed in Table 3-2, to identify an aircrafts data link equipment and capabilities:
3.3.2.2 In Item 18 of the flight plan, the operator should insert the following other information
relevant to CPDLC and ADS-C equipment and capabilities:
a) The indicator REG/ followed by the aircraft registration;
b) The indicator CODE/ followed by the aircraft address expressed in the form of an
alphanumerical code of six hexadecimal characters; and
c) The indicator SUR/ followed by RSP400 or RSP180, as appropriate.
3.3.3.1 In Item 10a of the flight plan, the operator should insert the E1 descriptor, to identify
an aircrafts FMC WPR capability.
Note. The aircraft identification (ACID) provided in the FMC WPR is correlated with the ID
provided in the filed flight plan and will be rejected if they do not match.
3.4.1.1 In addition to the guidelines provided in paragraph 3.2, an operator who intends to
participate in FMC WPR data link operations should advise participating ANSPs of the following
information at least thirty days in advance:
a) Whether the FMC WPRs will be manually triggered by the flight crew or be fully automated;
b) That the necessary coordination has taken place with the CSP, in operations involving a CFRS;
and
c) The aircraft type(s) and associated aircraft registration(s) of aircraft, in operations involving a
CFRS, since CFRS reports can only be received from aircraft whose aircraft registration is known to the
system.
3.4.1.2 The participating operator should demonstrate to the appropriate planning and
implementation regional group (PIRG) that they meet the RSP specifications (see Appendix C) for the
provision of FMC WPRs for ATS purposes. Once this has been demonstrated, the operator will be able
to participate in FMC WPR operations. Utilizing FMC WPR will be at the discretion of the operator.
3.4.1.4 The operator should use numeric characters in the flight identification portion (e.g.
ABC123) of the aircraft identification. When use of alphabetic characters (e.g. ABC123A) in the flight
identification is unavoidable, the operator should ensure the flight crew provides position reports by
voice.
3.4.1.5 Early versions of Airbus software are prone to large errors in position data. Operators
should ensure they have updated software before using FMC WPR.
4.1 Overview
4.1.1 General
4.1.1.1 This chapter provides guidance on procedures and recommended practices for the
controller and the radio operator in airspace where data link services are available.
4.1.1.3 Controllers should be knowledgeable in the ATC automation. Refer to paragraph 3.1.2
for guidelines for implementation of ground systems supporting data link operations.
4.1.1.4 Controllers should be knowledgeable in data link operations. Refer to Chapter 2 for an
overview of data link operations.
4.1.1.5 Radio operator procedures specific to data link operations can be found in paragraphs 4.9
and 4.9.3.
4.1.2.1 When communicating with an aircraft that is operating within airspace beyond the range
of DCPC VHF voice communication, CPDLC is available and local ATC procedures do not state
otherwise, the controller should normally choose CPDLC as the means of communication. The controller
would use voice as an alternative means of communication (e.g. VHF, HF or SATVOICE direct or via a
radio operator). However, in any case, the controller will determine the appropriate communication
medium to use at any given time.
4.1.2.2 In airspace where both DCPC VHF voice and CPDLC communication services are
provided, and local ATC procedures do not state otherwise, the controller will determine the appropriate
communication medium to use at any given time.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 8.3.2, requires that DCPC be established prior to the provision
of ATS surveillance services, unless special circumstances, such as emergencies, dictate otherwise. This
does not prevent the use of CPDLC for ATC communications, voice being immediately available for
intervention and to address non-routine and time critical situations.
4.1.2.3 To minimize pilot head down time and potential distractions during critical phases of
flight, the controller should use voice to communicate with aircraft operating below 10,000 ft AGL.
4.1.2.4 While the CPDLC message set, as defined in Appendix A, generally provides message
elements for common ATC communications, the controller may determine voice to be a more appropriate
means depending on the circumstances (e.g. some types of non-routine communications).
4.1.2.5 The controller should respond to a CPDLC message via CPDLC, and should respond to a
voice message via voice.
4.1.2.6 If a conflicting CPDLC and voice communication is received, the controller should
obtain clarification using voice.
4.2.1 General
4.2.1.1 The ATSU should manage its CPDLC connections, including initiating, transferring and
terminating the connection when no longer needed.
Note. The controlling ATSU coordinates with the next ATSU, establishing clearly when or where
the address forwarding will have to occur.
4.2.1.2 An ATSU may have an active connection with an aircraft not in that ATSUs airspace.
Some examples are:
a) When the aircraft is within a non-CPDLC service area and the flight crew initiates a logon to
the next controlling ATSU which is a CPDLC service area;
b) During the CPDLC connection transfer process;
c) Where the active connection is retained by the transferring ATSU subject to prior coordination;
or
d) In emergency circumstances.
4.2.1.3 Regardless of its connection status, an ATSU should never issue a clearance or
instruction to an aircraft outside its control area unless it has been coordinated with the ATSU in whose
airspace the aircraft is operating.
4.2.1.4 The ATSU should conduct any transfer of the CPDLC connection, or termination when
the aircraft leaves CPDLC airspace, in conjunction with an instruction (CONTACT or MONITOR)
identifying the appropriate ATSU for further communication.
4.2.2.2 The next ATSU should establish a CPDLC connection prior to the CDA terminating the
active CPDLC connection.
4.2.2.3 An ATSU should confirm that its CPDLC connection is active as soon as practicable
after the controller has assumed control of the aircraft, using one of the following methods:
a) For FANS 1/A, receipt of a DM 3 ROGER in response to UM 169 [free text];
b) For FANS 1/A, receipt of a DM 48 POSITION REPORT [position report], either initiated by
the flight crew or in response to UM 147 REQUEST POSITION REPORT; or
c) For ATN B1, receipt of a DM 99 CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY message; or
Note 1. If the receiving ATSU has not confirmed its CPDLC connection as being active, the receipt
of any response to an uplink (other than DM 63 NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY), or any unsolicited
downlink message, will confirm that the connection is active.
Note 2. Refer Appendix E for regional/State differences.
4.2.3.1 When using CPDLC to effect voice communications transfers, the CDA should complete
the voice frequency change process with the CPDLC connection transfer, as shown in Figure 4-1, using
the CONTACT/MONITOR message elements (UM 117 through UM 122):
a) If the frequency change is to be made immediately, sending UM 117 CONTACT [unit name]
[frequency] or UM 120 MONITOR [unit name] [frequency] and then, as soon as possible after the receipt
of the DM 0 WILCO response to the CONTACT or MONITOR message, terminate the CPDLC
connection; or
Note. For ATN B1, the termination request message is sent as a multi-element message that
includes UM 117 or UM 120.,while the termination confirmation is sent as a multi-element message that
includes the WILCO response. Refer to paragraph 2.2.4.8.3 for CPDLC termination.
b) If the frequency change is to be made at some time or position in the future, such as at the
boundary, sending UM 118 or UM 119 AT [position/time] CONTACT [unit name] [frequency] or UM
121 or UM 122 AT [position/time] MONITOR [unit name] [frequency] and then, after the receipt of the
DM 0 WILCO response, terminate the CPDLC connection in accordance with interfacility agreements
(See paragraph 3.1.4.8).
4.2.3.2 When using the (UM 117 through UM 122) CONTACT/MONITOR message elements,
the CDA should use the facility name for the [unit name] parameter.
Note. See Appendix F, paragraph F.9 for aircraft that do not support a <space> within the [unit
name] parameter.
ATSU 1
CONTACT or MONITOR
or
AT [position/time]
CONTACT or MONITOR
WILCO
Termination
Request
Termination
Confirmation
4.2.3.3 Since the CONTACT/MONITOR message elements listed in Table 4-1 include only one
[frequency] parameter, the controller should only use these message elements when instructing the flight
crew to change the primary frequency. In areas of poor radio coverage, the controller may append
CPDLC free text UM 169o SECONDARY FREQUENCY [frequency] to specify a secondary frequency.
4.2.3.4 In the FANS 1/A CPDLC message set, the option of RADIO per ICAO Annex 10,
Volume II, paragraph 5.2.1.7.1.2 is not a possible value for the [unit name] parameter used in CONTACT
and MONITOR messages. In the absence of this option, some ANSPs use CENTER to apply to an
aeronautical station (RADIO). Other ANSPs use CPDLC free text to mimic the MONITOR/CONTACT
instructions and indicate the facility name followed by RADIO.
4.2.4.1 Normally, the transferring ATSU should terminate the CPDLC connection prior to the
aircraft crossing a common boundary with the next ATSU. If for operational reasons the transferring
ATSU needs to delay the transfer until after the aircraft has passed the transfer point, the controller should
coordinate the transfer with the downstream ATSU and then notify the flight crew of the intended delay
using CPDLC free text UM 169l EXPECT CPDLC TRANSFER AT [time/position] or equivalent voice
phraseology.
Note. A termination request message is used to terminate a CPDLC connection (paragraph
2.2.4.4 refers). The controller may also initiate CPDLC termination via voice communication with the
flight crew.
4.2.4.2 The transferring ATSU should avoid terminating any CPDLC connection with open
dialogues. In cases where it is necessary, then prior to terminating the CPDLC connection, the
transferring ATSU should either:
a) Advise the flight crew using CPDLC free text UM 169j CHECK AND RESPOND TO OPEN
CPDLC MESSAGES or equivalent voice phraseology; or
b) Coordinate with the receiving ATSU, as necessary, any CPDLC messages that were still open
after terminating the CPDLC connection.
Note. Upon termination of the CPDLC connection, the open uplink CPDLC messages are
technically closed at the transferring ATSU and the aircraft.
4.2.4.3 Before terminating the CPDLC connection, the transferring ATSU should respond to
open CPDLC downlink messages.
Note. For an ATN B1 ground or aircraft system, an open downlink message is closed upon receipt
of the uplink response UM 0 UNABLE or UM 237 REQUEST AGAIN WITH NEXT UNIT.
4.2.4.4 If the controller receives an indication that the CPDLC termination was unsuccessful, the
controller may attempt to resend the termination request message. If the termination is still unsuccessful,
the controller should instruct the flight crew to terminate the CPDLC connection and initiate a logon to
the next unit. The controller should use the CPDLC free text UM 169am or UM 183am AUTOMATIC
TRANSFER OF CPDLC FAILED. WHEN ENTERING [unit name] AREA DISCONNECT CPDLC
THEN LOGON TO [facility designation] or equivalent voice phraseology.
Note 1. The [unit name] is expressed as the radiotelephony name, not the 4-character code. The
[facility designation] is the four character ICAO code.
Note 2. Instructing the flight crew to DISCONNECT CPDLC will result in loss of CPDLC
connectivity. This procedure should only be applied approaching the boundary with the next ATSU.
4.2.5 CPDLC connection with aircraft transiting small data link area
4.2.5.1 Unless otherwise agreed in inter-facility agreements, the current ATSU should complete
the process for establishing a CPDLC connection and for communication transfer to the next ATSU, even
though the transit time through the current airspace and/or the next airspace may be very short.
4.2.5.2 As a consequence, even though the short transit period through an ATSUs airspace is not
adequate to complete the communication transfer before the aircraft leaves the airspace, the current
ATSU should ensure that all messages are sent in the proper sequence at the correct time to successfully
establish a CPDLC connection and transfer the connection to the next ATSU (e.g. NDA, address
forwarding, MONITOR/CONTACT, and termination request message) and manually intervene, if
necessary.
Note 1. The transferring ATSU will need to be the CDA before any of these messages can be sent
successfully. For example, if the transferring ATSU tries to send the NDA message prior to becoming the
CDA to account for a short transit time, the aircraft system will reject the NDA. As a result, the
communication transfer may not be completed until the aircraft has traveled a significant distance into
the receiving ATSUs airspace.
Note 2. In areas where short-term transfers are common, facilities may establish agreements, per
paragraph 3.1.4.9, to facilitate improved connection transfers. In some instances, an advantage may be
gained by skipping the CPDLC connection to an ATSU (ATSU 2 in the Figure 4-2) where a short transit
occurs and transferring the NDA to the next downstream ATSU (ATSU 3)
4.2.5.3 As shown in Figure 4-2, if ATSU 2 requires ADS contracts to monitor the transit of the
aircraft across its area of responsibility, but the transfer of communications is not required, then ATSU 1
should send the NDA message specifying ATSU 3 as the NDA. In this case, a system with manual
capability should perform address forwarding to ATSU 3 first and then to ATSU 2 to give ATSU 3 a
higher priority ADS-C connection.
ATSU 1
Requires CPDLC and ADS-C
Priority 1
Priority 3
ATSU 3 ATSU 2
Requires CPDLC and ADS-C Requires ADS-C only
Priority 2
Flight
planned
route
4.2.5.4 When the CPDLC connection is transferred from ATSU 1 to ATSU 3, these ATSUs
should agree on the location or time the connection transfer is to occur.
4.2.5.5 In this circumstance, ATSU 1 may inform the flight crew by CPDLC free text UM 169m
(or voice equivalent): EXPECT NEXT CENTER [facility designation]. CONTACT WITH [facility
designation] NOT REQUIRED.
Example:
Controller UM 169m EXPECT NEXT CENTER ATSU 3. CONTACT WITH ATSU 2 NOT
(free text) REQUIRED
4.2.5.6 When applying this procedure for transferring CPDLC from ATSU 1 to ATSU 3, if the
interfacility agreement requires voice to also be transferred to ATSU 3, then ATSU 1 should specify
ATSU 3 in the CONTACT or MONITOR message prior to ending the CPDLC connection or
alternatively use voice. However, it may be advantageous to transfer voice communications to ATSU 2
even though ATSU 2 will not need a CPDLC connection. To achieve this, ATSU 1 may specify ATSU 2
in the CONTACT/MONITOR message sent prior to ending the CPDLC connection or alternatively use
voice.
4.3.1 General
4.3.1.2 When a closure response to an open CPDLC uplink message is not received within a
reasonable time period as determined by the ATSU, the controller should:
a) Continue to protect any airspace reserved by an outstanding clearance until an appropriate
operational response is received from the flight crew;
b) For a FANS 1/A ATSU, send CPDLC free text UM 169j CHECK AND RESPOND TO OPEN
CPDLC MESSAGES, rather than re-sending the original message. Alternatively, the controller may use
voice communication to clarify the status of the open CPDLC uplink message; or
c) For an ATN-B1 ATSU or a FANS 1/A-ATN B1 ATSU providing services to a FANS 1/A
aircraft, use voice communication to resolve the operational situation resulting from the timed out
CPDLC uplink message.
Note 1. A closure response is a response that operationally closes the dialogue. A DM 2
STANDBY response to an open CPDLC uplink message does not operationally close the dialogue.
Note 2. The use of a CPDLC free text message by a FANS 1/A ATSU avoids multiple open
messages involving the same instruction.
Note 3. An ATN B1 aircraft system and ground system close the uplink message after the aircraft
timer (ttr) expiration and receipt of an ERROR response. In normal circumstances, the aircraft-timer
(ttr) expires before the ground-timer (tts) expires.
Note 4. Some FANS 1/A-ATN B1 ATSUs automatically initiate a Provider Abort (commanded
termination) message to the aircraft upon expiration of the ground timer (tts).
4.3.1.3 The controller should only use standard message elements when composing clearances or
instructions. However, circumstances may exist where the controller may use free text to supplement the
standard message elements (See paragraph 4.3.2).
Note. The use of standard message elements will minimize the risk of input errors and
misunderstandings, and facilitate use by a non-native English speaking controllers and flight crews. The
use of standard message elements allows the aircraft and ground systems to automatically process the
information in the messages that are exchanged, which allows the flight crew to respond more quickly to
4.3.2.1 The controller should avoid the use of the free text message element. However, its use
may offer a viable solution to enhance operational capability.
Note. See paragraph 3.1.1.4 for guidelines for the ANSP to validate the use of the free text
message element.
4.3.2.2 The controller should only use a free text message when an appropriate standard message
element does not exist and the intended use does not change the volume of protected airspace.
4.3.2.3 When free text is used, the controller should use standard ATS phraseology and format
and avoid nonessential words and phrases. The controller should only include abbreviations in free text
messages when they form part of standard ICAO phraseology, for example, ETA.
4.3.3.1 The controller should only use the EXPECT message elements:
a) When responding to a flight crew request using the appropriate message element provided in
Table 4-2; or
b) When procedurally required to advise the flight crew using the appropriate message element
provided in Table 4-3.
Note. The FANS 1/A CPDLC message set contains EXPECT uplink message elements that the
controller should NOT use because of potential misinterpretation in the event of a total communication
failure. Some of these message elements have been reserved by Doc 4444. See Appendix A, paragraph
A.3, and Appendix E, paragraph E.7.1.3, for specific uplink message elements that should not be used.
Table 4-2. EXPECT uplink message elements for flight crew requests
Ref DL Request message Element Ref UL Response message element
EXPECT Vertical Clearances
DM 53 WHEN CAN WE EXPECT UM 7 EXPECT CLIMB AT [time]
HIGHER LEVEL or WHEN CAN WE UM 8 EXPECT CLIMB AT [position]
EXPECT HIGHER ALTITUDE
DM 52 WHEN CAN WE EXPECT LOWER UM 9 EXPECT DESCENT AT [time]
LEVEL or WHEN CAN WE EXPECT UM 10 EXPECT DESCENT AT [position]
LOWER ALTITUDE
4.3.4.1 When a vertical clearance contains a constraint for starting the climb or descent, the
controller should precede the conditional vertical clearance with UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]:
Controller UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]
UM 21 AT [time] CLIMB TO [level] or AT [time] CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN
[altitude]
Controller UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]
UM 22 AT [position] CLIMB TO [level] or AT [position] CLIMB TO AND
MAINTAIN [altitude]
Controller UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]
UM 24 AT [time] DESCEND TO [level] or AT [time] DESCEND TO AND
MAINTAIN [altitude]
Controller UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]
UM 25 AT [position] DESCEND TO [level] or AT [position] DESCEND TO
AND MAINTAIN [altitude]
Note 1. Conditional clearances add to the operational efficiency of the airspace. Conditional
clearances, however, have been associated with a large number of operational errors. Conditional
clearances are therefore used only when necessary.
Note 2. The potential exists for the AT [time/position] constraint at the beginning of a conditional
vertical clearance to be missed by the flight crew and consequently the clearance may be executed
prematurely. Including the UM 19 MAINTAIN [level] message element indicates to the flight crew that
the current level/altitude is to be maintained until the specified condition has been satisfied and may
prevent such clearances being executed prematurely.
Note 3. For ATN-B1 systems, these vertical clearance message elements are not available.
4.3.4.2 When a vertical clearance contains a constraint that is applicable during the flight
maneuver, the controller may use a conditional vertical clearance, as provided in Table 4-4, as either:
a) A single-element message, when the conditional vertical clearance is independent; or
b) A multi-element message, when another vertical clearance is dependent on the conditional
vertical clearance (see also paragraph 4.3.6).
Example 1: The controller issues a vertical clearance for the aircraft to climb to FL 390 and maintain
FL 390 AT or BEFORE 2200Z.
Controller UM 26 CLIMB TO REACH FL390 BY 2200Z
Example 2: The controller issues a vertical clearance for the aircraft to climb to FL 390 at a vertical rate
of 2000 feet per minute (or greater).
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL390 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL390
UM 171 CLIMB AT 2000 FEET PER MINUTE MINIMUM
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL390 or REPORT LEVEL FL390
Example 3: The controller issues a vertical clearance for the aircraft to climb to FL 390, and reach an
intermediate level of FL 370 (or higher) AT or BEFORE 0100Z.
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL390 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL390
UM 26 CLIMB TO REACH FL370 BY 0100Z
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL390 or REPORT LEVEL FL390
Note. A more appropriate procedure would be for the controller to use the message element UM
192 REACH [level] BY [time], defined in ICAO Doc 4444. However, this message element is not
available in the FANS 1/A message set. The example uses the message element UM 129 REPORT
MAINTAINING [level] or REPORT LEVEL [altitude] to highlight the final level intended by the
clearance.
4.3.4.3 If a level restriction is required after sending the initial clearance, the controller should
resend the entire clearance with the level restriction in a single CPDLC message.
Note. The controller should not send a vertical clearance in a CPDLC message and then
subsequently send a related level restriction in a separate message. If the controller sends the vertical
clearance and the related level restriction in two separate CPDLC messages, the controller would be
unintentionally amending the final cleared level of the aircraft (to FL 370) with the level restriction. The
flight crew may misinterpret the two separate instructions.
4.3.4.4 If a CPDLC level report is needed, the controller should append UM 129 REPORT
MAINTAINING [level] or REPORT LEVEL [altitude] to the vertical clearance message element that is
used to assign a single level/altitude.
Note 1. When UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING [level] or REPORT LEVEL [altitude] is
appended, the flight crew has access to the standard message element UM 19 MAINTAINING [level] or
4.3.4.5 To cancel a previously issued vertical range (i.e. block level) clearance and limit the
aircraft to one specific level, the controller should issue an appropriate vertical clearance.
Example 1:
Controller UM 19 MAINTAIN FL390
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL390 or REPORT LEVEL FL390
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
Example 2:
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL390 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL390
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL390 or REPORT LEVEL FL390
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
Note. The DM 0 WILCO response to the vertical clearance uplink cancels any previously issued
vertical range clearance.
4.3.5.1 If the controller requests the aircrafts Mach number or indicated airspeed, then the
controller should use the standard message element UM 134 (or UM 169b) REPORT [speed type]
[speed type] [speed type] SPEED or CONFIRM SPEED.
Note. Use of standard message elements allows the flight crew to use an automated response.
4.3.5.2 If ADS-C indicates a deviation from cleared route, level or assigned speed, the controller
may query the flight crew via CPDLC per Table 4-5.
4.3.5.3 If a scheduled CPDLC position report is not received, the controller may request the
report by uplinking message UM 147 REQUEST POSITION REPORT.
4.3.6.1 The controller should minimize the use of CPDLC multi-element uplink messages and
keep message size to a minimum.
4.3.6.2 The controller should only combine clearance or instruction message elements that are
dependent on each other into a single uplink message.
Note. The flight crew can only respond to the entire message with a single response and would
have to respond DM 1 UNABLE if they cannot comply with any part of the message. In addition, an
aircraft system may present long multi-element messages on multiple screens or pages, which increases
the complexity for the flight crew in reading and understanding the message in the correct sequence prior
to responding (paragraph 5.3.1 refers).
Example 1: The controller sends a single multi-element uplink message containing message elements for
each of the different parts of the clearance and/or instruction.
Controller UM 164 WHEN READY or UM 177 AT PILOTS DISCRETION
UM 23 DESCEND TO FL280 or DESCEND TO AND MAINTAIN FL280
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL280 or REPORT LEVEL FL280
Example 2: The controller sends a single multi-element uplink message containing message elements for
each of the different parts of the clearance and/or instruction.
Controller UM 23 DESCEND TO FL280 or DESCEND TO AND MAINTAIN FL280
UM 48 CROSS DAFFY AT OR ABOVE FL310
Note 1. The flight crew may misinterpret messages that contain unrelated clearances or
instructions.
Note 2. The controller should not send two independent clearances in a single message because
the flight crew cannot individually respond to each clearance, if necessary (e.g. WILCO one clearance
and UNABLE the other). The following is not recommended:
4.3.6.3 The controller should send all elements of a dependent clearance in a single unambiguous
uplink message.
Example 1: Level FL330 is only available for a flight if the speed is adjusted with other flights in the
same route to Mach .80 minimum, so the controller can only clear the aircraft to climb FL330 if its speed
is Mach .80 or more. Both clearances are mutually dependent. If the aircraft is unable to climb then a
speed adjustment is not required. If the aircraft cannot meet the speed constraint then a climb clearance is
not available.
Controller UM 108 MAINTAIN M.80 OR GREATER
UM 20 CLIMB TO FL330 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL330
Note 1. A dependent clearance is a message consisting of more than one clearance element,
where the flight crew is required to comply with each of the elements. A rejection of any of the elements,
either singly or in combination, renders the entire clearance invalid.
Note 2. Sending the elements as individual messages may compromise safety or separation if the
flight crew accepts the first uplink of a dependent clearance, complies with the instruction, and then
responds DM 1 UNABLE to the next message when received.
Note 3. The flight crew will respond to the multi-element uplink message with either DM 0
WILCO or DM 1 UNABLE, which applies to the entire message, per paragraph 5.3.1.2.
Note 4. The controller should not send a dependent clearance in a single multi-element uplink
message containing the condition THEN. In the following example, the message element UM 165 THEN
followed by the route clearance message element UM 74 PROCEED DIRECT TO [position] does not
clearly convey that the flight crew needs to complete the climb clearance prior to commencing the route
clearance change.
Controller CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL330
THEN
PROCEED DIRECT TO TUNTO
Example 2: The controller sends a single multi-element uplink message containing an amended route
clearance that is dependent on a vertical clearance. To eliminate any potential ambiguity, the controller
chose the second element to reinforce that the flight crew needs to comply with the vertical clearance
prior to complying with the amend route clearance.
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL330 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL330
UM 78 AT FL330 PROCEED DIRECT TO TUNTO
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL330 or REPORT LEVEL FL330.
4.4.1 General
4.4.1.1 The ATSU should respond to a downlink message that it does not support according to
paragraph 3.1.2.5.3.
4.4.1.2 The ATSU should respond to an incoming request as soon as practicable to avoid the
flight crew initiating a duplicate request.
Note. ATN B1 ground systems provide for automatic timeout of messages that are not responded
to, while FANS 1/A ground system messages can remain open indefinitely.
4.4.2.1 In the case of a controller having any doubt as to the intent of a downlink message, or if
any other ambiguity exists, the controller should seek clarification using CPDLC or voice. The controller
should then respond to the downlink message with a CPDLC message consistent with the clarification to
prevent confusion and to close the open downlink message.
4.4.3 Responses/acknowledgements
4.4.3.1 The controller should respond to a clearance request by issuing a clearance using an
appropriate standard message element, UM 1 STANDBY or UM 0 UNABLE.
4.4.3.2 When a clearance request is denied, the controller should send UM 0 UNABLE and,
when practicable, append a reason for the non-availability of the clearance.
Note. The controller should not restate the aircrafts current clearance.
4.4.3.3 The controller should send UM 1 STANDBY to provide advice to the flight crew that the
requested clearance is being assessed, but is not readily available, for example, due to traffic or delays in
coordination with the next sector or ATSU.
4.4.3.4 If a UM 1 STANDBY response is sent, the controller should subsequently send another
response within a reasonable period of time, or as required to prevent message timeout or flight crew
confusion.
Note. The downlink message remains open. If the controller does not respond within this time, the
flight crew may query the controller per paragraph 5.4.1.5.
4.4.3.5 If a duplicate CPDLC request is received prior to having responded to the first request,
the controller should send appropriate responses to both of the requests.
Note. Responding to both requests will close the downlink messages. Depending on the ground
system, the closure response for the second request may be:
a) a re-iteration of the response for the first downlink request (e.g. a clearance or UM 0 UNABLE);
or
b) some other uplink message that does not contradict any previous clearance that may have been
sent (i.e. avoid sending a clearance to one downlink request and UM 0 UNABLE to the duplicated
downlink message)
Example 1:
Dialogue 1 Dialogue 2
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 0 UNABLE
Controller UM 0 UNABLE
Example 2:
Dialogue 1 Dialogue 2
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL370 or CLIMB
TO AND MAINTAIN FL370
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL370 or CLIMB TO
AND MAINTAIN FL370; or (for example)
UM 169 CLEARANCE ALREADY SENT
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO or DM 3 ROGER, as
appropriate
4.4.3.6 If a UM 1 STANDBY message had previously been sent when a duplicated request is
received, and additional time is required before the clearance is available, the controller should respond
with UM 2 REQUEST DEFERRED, when appropriate.
Example:
Dialogue 1 Dialogue 2
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 1 STANDBY
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 2 REQUEST DEFERRED
Time passes until clearance is available.
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL370 or CLIMB
TO AND MAINTAIN FL370
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL370 or CLIMB TO
AND MAINTAIN FL370; or (for example)
UM 169 CLEARANCE ALREADY SENT
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
4.4.4.1 While it is recommended that the flight crew avoid requests for multiple clearances in a
single CPDLC message per paragraph 5.4.1.4, such requests can occur.
4.4.4.2 If the controller receives multiple clearance requests in a single message and can approve
all clearance requests, the controller should respond in a single message that includes the appropriate
clearance for each request in the message.
Example:
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
DM 22 REQUEST DIRECT TO TUNTO
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL370 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL370
UM 74 PROCEED DIRECT TO TUNTO
4.4.4.3 If the controller receives multiple clearance requests in a single message and cannot
approve all of the clearance request elements, the controller should send, in a single message, UM 0
UNABLE, which applies to all elements of the original message.
Note 1. The controller should not restate the aircrafts current clearance.
4.4.5.1 If a clearance request contained in a CPDLC message cannot be issued, the controller
should send UM 0 UNABLE to deny the request prior to issuing any subsequent clearances.
a) If an alternative clearance (intermediate level or deferred climb) can be issued, the controller
may subsequently uplink the clearance in a separate CPDLC message; and
b) If an alternative clearance that the flight crew might not be able to accept (higher level or route
modification) can be issued, the controller should negotiate the clearance with the flight crew prior to
issuing it.
Note. The procedures for issuing alternative clearances are not applicable to a clearance request
associated with an ADS-B ITP. See paragraph 6.3.
Example 1: The aircraft is maintaining FL330. The controller is unable to issue the requested clearance
and issues an alternative clearance to a flight level that is lower than requested.
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 0 UNABLE
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UM 166 DUE TO TRAFFIC
Controller UM 20 CLIMB TO FL350. UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL350 or
UM 20 CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL350. UM 129 REPORT LEVEL FL350
Example 2. The aircraft is maintaining FL330. The controller is unable to issue the requested clearance,
and queries whether the aircraft can accept a flight level that is higher than requested.
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UM 0 UNABLE
UM 166 DUE TO TRAFFIC
Controller UM 148 WHEN CAN YOU ACCEPT FL390
Flight crew DM 81 WE CAN ACCEPT FL390 AT 2200
Note. The controller should not simply respond to the downlink request with the alternative
clearance. The following procedure is not a recommended practice. The controller does not provide the
correct ATC response.
Flight crew REQUEST CLIMB TO FL370
Controller UNABLE. CLIMB TO FL350. REPORT MAINTAINING FL350 or
UNABLE. CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL350. REPORT LEVEL FL350
4.5 ADS-C
Note. For ATN B1, the ADS-C application is not supported.
4.5.1 General
4.5.1.1 ADS-C reports contain FMS information relating to the figure of merit (FOM), ACAS
and the aircraft's navigational redundancy. Some automated ground systems use the FOM value received
in an ADS-C report to determine whether to display the report to controllers, or to display a "high" or
"low" quality ADS-C symbol.
4.5.1.2 If a FOM-reported navigational performance is being used and a change to the FOM
value is observed, the controller should seek clarification from the flight crew as to the extent of any
observed navigational degradation.
Note. In accordance with ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 5.2.2, the flight crew advises ATC of
degraded performance below the level required for the airspace and where the reported degradation
affects the separation minimum currently being applied, the controller would take action to establish
another appropriate type of separation.
4.5.1.3 If a flight crew inserts a non-ATC waypoint into the aircraft active flight plan, the aircraft
may send a waypoint change event report, which contains information on the non-ATC waypoint in the
predicted route group, as well as the intermediate and fixed projected intent groups of the report. The
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ATSU may receive information on the next, or the next-plus-one waypoints from that report that do not
correlate with the waypoint information provided in the current flight plan or flight data record held by
the ATSU. Refer to Appendix F, paragraph F.5 for FMS processing of waypoints on different aircraft
types.
Note. The flight crew normally would not insert non-ATC waypoints per paragraph 5.6.4.4.
4.5.1.4 Unless required for safety purposes, such as to monitor aircraft operating close to, but not
entering its airspace, the ATSU should only establish ADS contracts for aircraft within its area of
responsibility.
4.5.1.5 A controller who becomes aware of corrupt or incorrect data from an ADS-C report
should establish voice contact with the aircraft concerned in order to correct the situation.
4.5.1.6 When an ATSU is using both ADS-C and CPDLC position reporting and detects a
discrepancy of 2 minutes or less between the reports, the controller should reconcile the time difference.
Where the time difference is more than 2 minutes, the controller should request confirmation of the
estimate for the waypoint in question.
Note. CPDLC and ADS-C estimates received from the same aircraft for the same position may
differ as a result of the ADS-C application reporting time to the second and the time reported by CPDLC
application either being truncated or rounded to the nearest full minute (depending on aircraft type). The
flight crew also has the ability to modify the estimate for the next position in the CPDLC position report.
Any such modification will not be reflected in the ADS-C report.
4.5.1.7 Whenever an ADS-C report (either a periodic or waypoint change event report) is not
received within a parameter of the expected time, the controller should ascertain the position of the
aircraft by initiating a demand contract request, re-establish a new periodic contract with the aircraft, or
request a CPDLC or voice position report.
4.5.1.8 When the application of specified separation minima is dependent on the reporting
interval of periodic position reports, the ATC unit should only establish a periodic contract with a
reporting interval less than the required reporting interval.
4.5.1.9 If the controller becomes aware of a data link communications failure, the controller
should advise affected aircraft to revert to voice position reporting in accordance with paragraph 4.9.3.
4.5.2.1 In airspace where procedural separation is being applied, the ATSU should establish the
following:
a) ADS periodic contract at an interval appropriate to the airspace requirements; and
b) ADS event contract for the following events:
1) Waypoint change event;
2) Lateral deviation event;
3) Level range deviation event; and
4) Vertical rate change event of negative 5000 feet per minute (descent rate).
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4.5.3 ADS-C connection management
4.5.3.1 The ATSU should terminate ADS contracts when they are no longer operationally
required.
4.5.3.2 When the ATS ground system receives a logon request message, the ATSU may initiate
an ADS-C connection by sending an ADS contract request(s) to the aircraft. The ADS-C application does
not assign any technical priority to ADS-C connections; therefore, the controlling ATSU may not be
aware of other connections established with the aircraft. As a result, when the ground system functionality
permits it, and where circumstances make it advantageous, the controlling ATSU should initiate address
forwarding in an order that would provide ATSUs that will control the aircraft with an opportunity to
have the highest priority for ADS-C connections.
Note1. ADS-C reports are assembled and sent in a sequential process based on the order of the
ADS contracts established with the various ATSUs. For example, the first ATSU to establish contracts
with the aircraft will continue to receive the reports from the aircraft first, even if it no longer has control
of the flight. When this connection is terminated, the next ATSU to have established ADS contracts begins
to receive the reports first. This may have the effect of reducing the apparent ADS-C performance of
aircraft for which the ATSU is not the first unit to be receiving the ADS-C report.
Note2. The following guidance is for ground systems that allow the controller to manually initiate
the address forwarding process. Other systems have automated this process, often linking it to the
automated coordination of the aircraft. Those systems will normally forward aircraft in the order in
which they need to be coordinated.
4.5.3.4 For example, as shown in Figure 4-3, an ADS contract is required by ATSU 2 to monitor
the aircrafts progress. To ensure that the next unit with direct control responsibility for the aircraft
(ATSU 3) has priority over the ADS-C connections, ATSU 1 should initiate address forwarding to
ATSU 3 prior to address forwarding to ATSU 2.
ATSU 1 CDA
Requires CPDLC and ADS-C
Priority 1
Priority 3
4.5.3.5 When all available ADS-C connections with a particular aircraft have been established,
such as shown in Figure 4-4, any other ATSUs attempting to connect with the aircraft will receive a
DISCONNECT REQUEST (DIS) message with "reason code 1" (congestion).
4.5.3.6 When such a DIS message is received by an ATSU that would normally have priority for
an ADS-C connection, the ATSU should notify the current controlling ATSU. The controlling ATSU
should attempt to resolve the situation.
4.5.3.7 The controlling ATSU has a number of options available, such as coordination with the
previous ATSU or other adjacent ATSUs to determine if the existing ADS-C connections are still
required or, when considered absolutely necessary, instructing the flight crew to terminate ADS-C
connections per Appendix F, paragraph F.11.
4.5.3.8 Depending on aircraft type, the latter option may terminate all current ADS contracts;
therefore, the controlling authority should consider the operational effect on other ATSUs prior to
employing this method. For example, as shown in Figure 4-4, the aircraft has allocated priority for
ADS-C connections with four ATSUs and one AOC facility:
Priority 5
ATSU 1 (ADS-C)
Current controlling authority
Priority 1
Priority 3
Priority 4
Priority 2
ATSU 2 (ADS-C)
Flight Adjacent FIR
planned
route
ATSU 3 (ADS-C)
Next controlling authority
4.5.4.1 When setting a default periodic reporting interval, the ANSP should take into account
requirements for the separation standard in use, conformance monitoring, traffic levels, and alerting
service. Typically, default periodic contract intervals are set to satisfy the position reporting requirements
of the default separation standard in use.
4.5.4.2 The ANSP should avoid arbitrarily selecting short periodic default intervals because of
the economic cost to the users and the unnecessary system loading imposed by these short default
intervals.
4.5.4.4 The ANSP should ensure that the periodic reporting interval in use is in accordance with
the position reporting requirements of the separation standard being used. In some circumstances, such as
an emergency situation, the ATSU may establish a shorter periodic reporting interval. When not required
for the application of separation, or other circumstances, the ANSP should return to a longer periodic
reporting interval to reduce operators costs and unnecessary loading of the system.
Note. Normally, the controlling ATSU should not establish ADS-C periodic reporting at an
interval shorter than five minutes. An adjacent non-controlling ATSU should not establish ADS-C
periodic reporting at an interval shorter than what is required for application of any reduced separation
in effect for the flight. In unusual circumstances, the ATSU may specify a periodic reporting interval for
a few aircraft as short as 64 seconds, per paragraph 2.2.6.3.3.2.
4.5.5.1 A waypoint event report will be sent at any waypoint contained in the aircraft active
flight plan, which may include compulsory and non-compulsory reporting points. These waypoints are
reflected in the predicted route group.
4.5.6 ADS contract - vertical range change and lateral deviation events
4.5.6.1 When the level range deviation event and lateral deviation event contracts are
established, the controller will only be alerted to vertical or lateral variations that exceed the associated
tolerances.
Note. If a regular periodic report is sent as the aircraft is deviating from cleared level or route
(but still within the level or lateral tolerances) the controller will still be alerted to the variation despite
no event report having been sent.
4.6 Separation
4.6.1.1 The ATSU may use ADS-C for the application of procedural separation within a mixed
environment, such as airspace where position reports are provided by a mixture of aircraft reporting by
ADS-C and aircraft reporting by other means.
4.6.1.3 When ADS-C is used for route conformance monitoring to support the separation, the
ATSU should establish appropriate ADS contracts that specify the periodic reporting interval and
tolerances on events in accordance with separation standards.
Note. This will ensure that estimates being used for route conformance monitoring are acceptable
for the separation and the controller receives an indication when the aircraft is not in conformance with
its current flight plan.
4.6.1.4 The controller should advise the flight crew when the controller observes that the aircraft
has deviated significantly from its cleared flight profile. The controller should take action as appropriate if
the deviation is likely to affect the air traffic service being provided.
4.6.2.1 Where practical, the tolerances used to determine whether a specific level is occupied by
an ADS-C reporting aircraft within the airspace of a specific ATSU should be consistent with other
tolerances used throughout the airspace. For example, the vertical tolerances for ADS-C should be
consistent with vertical tolerances used for level adherence monitoring by other forms of surveillance,
such as radar.
4.6.2.2 Where other vertical tolerances do not exist, the ATSU should apply a vertical tolerance
of +/ 300 feet for ADS-C applications. However, an individual ATSU may specify in local instructions
and the AIP (or other appropriate publication) that it uses a tolerance of not less than +/ 200 feet to
provide consistency with other vertical tolerances applied within its airspace.
4.6.2.3 If displayed ADS-C level information does not satisfy the required tolerance for an
individual ATSU, then the controller should advise the flight crew accordingly and request confirmation
of the aircraft's level. If following confirmation of the level, the displayed ADS-C level information is
still beyond the required tolerance, the controller may need to apply another method of separation or
another method of determining level information.
4.6.2.4 When displayed ADS-C level information is within the specified tolerance of the
expected or cleared flight level, the ATSU may use the ADS-C level information to apply vertical
separation and to determine that an aircraft has reached or is maintaining a specified level.
4.6.2.5 The controller can consider that an aircraft has left a specified level when the displayed
ADS-C level information indicates that the aircraft has passed the level in the required direction by more
than the required tolerance.
4.6.3.1 An ATSU can use ADS-C report information to automatically detect when an aircraft is
beyond an area of lateral conflict and provide an indication when this occurs to the controller.
4.6.4.1 ATSUs that use approved or integrated measurement tools for the purpose of determining
screen-based separation should publish in local documentation any limitations on the use of such tools for
the establishment and monitoring of separation standards.
4.6.4.2 The ATSU may use ADS-C reports to establish and monitor longitudinal time and
distance separation standards.
4.6.4.3 Some ground systems display an extrapolated or interpolated ADS-C symbol between the
receipt of ADS-C reports. Provided that the periodic reporting interval in use is in accordance with any
maximum reporting interval specified by the separation standard, the ATSU may determine separation
between the extrapolated/interpolated symbols by the use of screen-based measurement tools, or by the
use of automated conflict detection tools.
4.6.4.4 When the ATSU uses extrapolated or interpolated ADS-C symbols to provide separation
and any doubt exists as to the integrity or validity of the information being presented, the controller
should send a demand contract to update the relevant information. If doubt still exists, the controller
should consider using an alternative method of separation.
4.6.4.5 The ATSU may use ground system flight data records updated by ADS-C reports in the
application of appropriate time-based separation standards. Methods of determination may include
reference to:
a) Estimates at waypoints;
b) Calculated estimates for positions not contained in the flight plan;
c) Screen-based measurement tools; or
d) Automated conflict detection tools.
4.6.4.6 The ATSU may use ADS-C reports for the application of appropriate longitudinal
distance standards. Methods of determination may include:
a) The use of automated system tools to measure the displayed positions of two or more aircraft
reporting by ADS-C;
b) Comparing the displayed position of an ADS-C aircraft with the position of another aircraft
determined by an alternative form of surveillance; or
c) The use of automated conflict detection tools.
4.6.5.1 Whenever an FMC waypoint position report is overdue by more than a specific interval,
as determined by ATC, the controller should take action to advise the aircraft concerned and request a
voice position report. If either the flight crew or the controller notices intermittent operation, either may
revert to voice reporting at any time. (The flight crew would be expected to report by voice for the
remainder of the flight.)
4.6.5.2 A controller who becomes aware of corrupt or incorrect data in the FMC waypoint
position report should establish voice contact with the aircraft concerned in order to correct the situation.
4.6.5.3 A controller who becomes aware of a FMC WPR service failure should advise affected
aircraft to revert to voice position reporting in accordance with paragraph 4.9.3.
4.7.1 For ADS-C aircraft, the ATSU should base the provision of the alerting service on any
missed scheduled report (i.e. provided by either the periodic contract or the waypoint event contract).
4.8.1 General
4.8.1.1 The flight crew will use whatever means are appropriate (i.e. CPDLC and/or voice) to
communicate during an emergency.
Note. For ATN B1 aircraft, emergency message elements are not supported. See Appendix A,
paragraph A.4, for a list of emergency message elements.
4.8.1.2 When emergency situations are communicated via CPDLC, the controller may respond
via CPDLC. However, the controller may also attempt to make voice contact with the aircraft.
4.8.1.3 The controller should follow normal emergency response procedures, as appropriate,
depending on the nature of the emergency.
4.8.2.1 If the ATSU receives an ADS-C emergency report without a corresponding CPDLC
emergency message, then the controller should request confirmation of the emergency in accordance with
the guidelines provided in paragraph 4.8.3.
4.8.2.2 The controller should treat any CPDLC downlink message that contains an emergency
message element (see Appendix A, paragraph A.4 for the list of emergency message elements) as an
emergency message.
4.8.2.3 If the ATSU receives a CPDLC emergency message such as DM 55 PAN PAN PAN or
DM 56 MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY, the controller should acknowledge receipt of the CPDLC
message using the most appropriate means (voice or CPDLC). If responding by CPDLC, the controller
should use either of the following free text message elements (as appropriate):
a) UM 169r ROGER PAN if the downlink message contains DM 55 PAN PAN PAN; or
b) UM 169q ROGER MAYDAY if the downlink message contains DM 56 MAYDAY MAYDAY
MAYDAY.
Note 1. For FANS 1/A, the CPDLC emergency messages do not require a closure response.
Therefore, the aircraft system will reject receipt of any technical response (i.e. including a MRN), such as
the DM 3 ROGER message element.
Note 2. For FANS 1/A, if the controller sends a CPDLC free text message to respond to an
emergency message, the flight crew may not send the required response (i.e. DM 3 ROGER) to the free
text message, depending on workload and the nature of the emergency .
4.8.2.4 The controller should attempt to determine the nature of the emergency and ascertain any
assistance that may be required.
4.8.2.5 The ATSU with control responsibility for the flight may choose to:
a) Shorten the ADS-C periodic reporting interval; or
b) Send a demand contract request.
Note 1. Shortening the ADS-C reporting interval reduces the period between cancellation of the
ADS-C emergency and receipt of the ADS-C CANCEL EMERGENCY message.
Note 2. Adjacent ATSUs should not shorten the ADS-C periodic reporting interval.
Note 3. A demand contract request is not required if the periodic reporting interval has been
shortened an ADS-C report will have already been triggered by the aircraft when the new periodic
contract is received.
4.8.3.1 When an ATSU not having control responsibility for the aircraft receives an indication of
an ADS-C emergency, they should confirm that the controlling authority has also received the emergency
report (see paragraph 3.1.2.4.2 for related information).
4.8.3.2 When an ATSU having control responsibility for the aircraft receives an indication of an
ADS-C emergency report without either a CPDLC emergency message or voice confirmation, then it is
possible that the aircraft may be subject to unlawful interference or inadvertent activation of the ADS-C
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emergency mode. If a subsequent ADS-C report indicates that the aircraft is maintaining normal
operations (i.e. the aircraft is operating in accordance with its clearance), the controller should confirm the
ADS-C emergency using CPDLC or voice.
4.8.3.3 To confirm activation of the ADS-C emergency mode using CPDLC, the controller
should send the following CPDLC free text uplink (or voice equivalent).
Controller UM 169ak CONFIRM ADS-C EMERGENCY
4.8.3.3.1 If the emergency mode has been activated inadvertently, the controller expects the flight
crew to cancel the ADS-C emergency and advise the controller either by voice or the following CPDLC
messages.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER, then
DM 67ab ADS-C RESET
4.8.3.3.2 If the aircraft continues with the ADS-C emergency mode activated, the controller should
assume the aircraft is in emergency conditions and follow normal alerting procedures.
Note. The aircraft may not send the ADS-C CANCEL EMERGENCY message until the next ADS-C
periodic report is due.
4.9.1 General
4.9.1.1 Refer to current ICAO procedures for standards and recommended practices on complete
communications failure (CPDLC and voice).
4.9.2.1 When CPDLC fails and open messages existed at the time of failure, the controller
should re-commence any dialogues involving those messages by voice.
4.9.2.2 The controller or radio operator should use the standard voice phraseology under certain
conditions as indicated in Table 4-6.
Note. See paragraph 5.9.2.2 for standard voice phraseology used by the flight crew.
4.9.3.1 In the event of a log on failure by an aircraft in or approaching an ATSUs airspace, and
when a flight plan is available, the ATSU should check that the aircraft identification and aircraft
registration or address, as well as other details contained in the data link initiation request, correspond
with details in the flight plan.
Note. In the case of FANS 1/A, the geographic position of the aircraft at the time of initiating the
logon is contained in the logon request message.
4.9.3.1.1 If initiation request details differ from the flight plan details, the controller should contact
the flight crew to resolve differences between the aircraft details and the flight plan and make the
appropriate changes in either the flight plan or the aircraft; and then arrange a re-initiation of the logon
process by the flight crew.
4.9.3.1.2 If initiation request details match the flight plan details but the flight is not eligible for log
on at this time, the controller should contact the flight crew to arrange a re-initiation of the logon process
at an appropriate time.
4.9.3.2 In the event of a log on failure by an aircraft in or approaching an ATSUs airspace, and,
when no flight plan is available, the controller should:
a) If possible, contact the flight crew to obtain sufficient flight plan data to enable a successful log
on; and then
b) Arrange a re-initiation of the logon process.
4.9.3.3 The ANSP should ensure that procedures are in place to notify the appropriate
State/regional monitoring agency via a problem report of the failure.(paragraph 3.2.2 refers)
Note. When it can be determined that the log on is inappropriate, no action is required.
4.9.4.1.1 If a CPDLC dialogue is interrupted by a data link service failure, the controller should re-
commence the entire dialogue by voice communication.
4.9.4.1.2 When the controller recognizes a failure of the CPDLC connection, the controller should
instruct the flight crew to terminate the connection and then initiate another logon. The controller or radio
operator should use the following voice phraseology:
Controller CPDLC FAILURE.
(or radio operator) DISCONNECT CPDLC THEN LOGON TO [facility designation]
Flight crew ROGER
Note. The [facility designation] is the 4 character ICAO code.
4.9.4.2.1 When the automatic transfer of the CPDLC connection fails, the controller should use the
following messages via CPDLC. When using voice, use the equivalent voice phraseology:
Controller UM 169am or UM 183am AUTOMATIC TRANSFER OF CPDLC FAILED.
WHEN ENTERING [unit name] AREA DISCONNECT CPDLC THEN LOGON
TO [facility designation]
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
Note 1. The [unit name] is expressed as the radiotelephony name, not the 4-character code. The
[facility designation] is the relevant four character ICAO code.
Note 2. Instructing the flight crew to DISCONNECT CPDLC will result in loss of CPDLC
connectivity. This procedure should only be applied approaching the boundary with the next ATSU.
4.9.4.3.1 In the event of an unplanned data link shutdown, the relevant ATSU should inform:
a) All affected aircraft using the following voice phraseology:
Controller ALL STATIONS CPDLC FAILURE.
(or radio operator) DISCONNECT CPDLC. CONTINUE ON VOICE
Flight crew ROGER
b) The adjacent ATSUs by direct coordination; and
c) All relevant parties via the publication of a NOTAM, if appropriate.
Note. In the event of a planned or unexpected network or satellite data service outage (e.g.
ground earth station failure), the CSP will notify all ATSUs within the affected area in accordance with
paragraph 3.1.3.1 so the controller can inform affected aircraft.
4.9.4.4.1 During the time period of a planned data link shutdown, the ANSP will advise the
operators of the requirements to use voice communication procedures.
4.9.4.4.2 When advising the flight crew prior to the commencement of a planned data link
shutdown, the controller should use the following CPDLC message or the radio operator should use the
equivalent voice phraseology:
Controller UM 169ax CPDLC WILL BE SHUT DOWN. DISCONNECT CPDLC.
(or radio operator, CONTINUE ON VOICE
if voice) Note 1. The controller could optionally provide the voice frequency.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
Note 2. The controller expects the flight crew to terminate the CPDLC
connection and continue on voice.
4.9.4.5.1 Some ATSUs are not equipped with both CPDLC and ADS-C and consequently may
experience a failure of either the CPDLC or ADS-C service. For ATSUs that have both CPDLC and
ADS-C, both components can fail independently or simultaneously.
4.9.4.5.2 When the ADS-C service is shut down, the affected ATSU should inform all other
affected parties of the shutdown and likely duration.
4.9.4.5.3 If the CPDLC service is still available, the controller should revert to either CPDLC or
voice to fulfill the position reporting requirement. The controller should then send a CPDLC message to
notify the flight crew of position reporting requirements using either of the following free text messages:
Controller UM 169ao ADS-C SHUT DOWN AT [facility designation]. REVERT TO CPDLC
POSITION REPORTS. LEAVE ADS-C ARMED.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
or
Controller UM 169at ADS-C SHUT DOWN AT [facility designation]. REVERT TO VOICE
POSITION REPORTS. LEAVE ADS-C ARMED.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
Note. The [facility designation] is the 4 character ICAO code.
4.9.4.5.4 When an ADS-C contract cannot be established, or if ADS-C reporting from an aircraft
ceases unexpectedly, the controller should instruct the flight crew, using the following CPDLC message
or use equivalent voice phraseology:
Controller UM 169an CONFIRM ADS-C ARMED
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
Note. The flight crew may have inadvertently selected ADS-C off. If ADS-C had been turned off,
re-arming it will not re-initiate previous ADS contracts. The ATSU will need to establish new ADS
contracts.
4.9.4.6.1 The controller or radio operator should use the following voice phraseology to advise the
flight crew that the CPDLC system has resumed operations.
Controller [ALL STATIONS] RESUME NORMAL CPDLC OPERATIONS.
(or radio operator) LOGON TO [facility designation]
Flight crew LOGON [facility designation]
Note. The [facility designation] is the 4 character ICAO code.
4.9.4.6.2 The controller or radio operator should use the following voice phraseology to advise the
flight crew that the CPDLC and ADS-C system has resumed operations.
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Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD) 4-35
4.9.4.6.3 The controller or radio operator should use the following CPDLC message or use
equivalent voice phraseology to advise the flight crew that the ADS-C system has resumed operations and
CPDLC and voice position reports are not required.
Controller UM 169aw RESUME NORMAL ADS-C OPERATIONS.
(or radio operator) CPDLC AND VOICE POSITION REPORTS NOT REQUIRED
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
4.9.4.7.1 If ADS-C or CPDLC position reports indicate inaccurate time estimates. The controller
should notify the flight crew using voice or the following free text message:
Controller UM 169h ADS-C ESTIMATES APPEAR INACCURATE. CHECK FMS.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
4.9.4.8.1 If the flight crew advises that a SATCOM failure has occurred on the aircraft and the
failure affects the separation minimum currently being applied, the controller should establish an
appropriate separation minimum.
4.9.5.1 In airspace where procedural separation is being applied, when an ATSU and an aircraft
cannot communicate, the controller may use CPDLC to relay messages via an intermediary CPDLC-
capable aircraft. Depending on circumstances, the controller may first confirm that the CPDLC-capable
aircraft is in contact with the subject aircraft, and should obtain concurrence from the flight crew that they
will act as an intermediary. The controller should only use free text, with the following form:
Controller UM 169ap RELAY TO [call sign] [unit name] [text of message to be relayed]
Where:
[call sign] is expressed as the radiotelephony call sign, rather than the ICAO three
letter or IATA two letter designator;
[unit name] is expressed as the radiotelephony name, not the 4-character code;
and
[text of message to be relayed] conforms to the guidelines provided paragraph
3.1.1.4 and 4.3.2 (e.g. CLEARS [call sign] CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL340).
5.1 Overview
5.1.1 General
5.1.1.1 The operator may be required to obtain an operational authorization by the State of the
Operator or State of Registry to use CPDLC and ADS-C services in accordance with paragraph 3.2. This
chapter provides guidance on procedures for the flight crew in airspace where data link services are
available.
5.1.1.2 These procedures are intended to assist operators in the development of:
a) Operating procedures and associated documentation; and
b) Appropriate training programs.
5.1.1.3 Flight crews should be knowledgeable in operating manuals for use of the data link
system specific to the aircraft type.
Note. Refer to paragraph 3.2.1.3.
5.1.2.2 For example, when using voice communications, each flight crew member hears an
incoming or outgoing ATS transmission. With voice, the natural ability for each flight crew member to
understand incoming and outgoing transmissions for their own aircraft has provided a certain level of
situational awareness among the flight crew. With CPDLC, flight crew procedures need to ensure that the
flight crew has an equivalent level of situational awareness associated with understanding the content and
intent of a message in the same way.
5.1.2.3 Each flight crew member (e.g. pilot flying and pilot monitoring) should individually
review each CPDLC uplink message prior to responding to and/or executing any clearance, and
individually review each CPDLC downlink message prior to transmission.
5.1.2.5 Uplink messages require special attention to prevent the flight crew from responding to a
clearance with DM 0 WILCO, but not complying with that clearance. To minimize errors, when
responding to a clearance with DM 0 WILCO, each flight crew member should read the uplink message
individually (silently) before initiating a discussion about whether and how to act on the message.
Reading a message individually is a key element to ensuring that each flight crew member does not infer
any preconceived intent different from what is intended or appropriate. Use of this method can provide a
flight crew with an acceptable level of situational awareness for the intended operations.
5.1.2.6 In a similar manner, each flight crew member should individually review CPDLC
downlink messages before the message is sent. Having one flight crew member (e.g. the pilot
monitoring) input the message and having a different flight crew member (pilot flying) review the
message before it is sent provides an adequate level of situational awareness comparable to or better than
voice communication.
5.1.2.7 The flight crew should coordinate uplink and downlink messages using the appropriate
flight deck displays. Unless otherwise authorized, the flight crew should not use printer-based
information to verify CPDLC messages as printers are not usually intended for this specific purpose.
Note. For aircraft that have CPDLC message printing capabilities, there are constraints
associated with the use of the flight deck printer. Printers may not produce an exact copy of the
displayed clearance with the required reliability, and should not be used as the primary display for
CPDLC. However, in some cases, printed copies may assist the flight crew with clearances and other
information that are displayed on more than one page, conditional clearances and crew handover
briefings.
5.1.3.1 When operating within airspace beyond the range of DCPC VHF voice communication,
CPDLC is available and local ATC procedures do not state otherwise, the flight crew should normally
choose CPDLC as the means of communication. The flight crew would use voice as an alternative means
of communication (e.g. VHF, HF or SATVOICE direct or via a radio operator). However, in any case,
the flight crew will determine the appropriate communication medium to use at any given time.
5.1.3.2 In airspace where both DCPC VHF voice and CPDLC communication services are
provided, and local ATC procedures do not state otherwise, the flight crew will determine the
communication medium to use at any given time.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 8.3.2, requires that DCPC be established prior to the provision
of ATS surveillance services, unless special circumstances, such as emergencies, dictate otherwise. This
does not prevent the use of CPDLC for ATC communications, voice being immediately available for
intervention and to address non-routine and time critical situations.
5.1.3.3 To minimize pilot head down time and potential distractions during critical phases of
flight, the flight crew should use voice for ATC communications when operating below 10,000 ft AGL.
5.1.3.5 During an emergency, the flight crew would normally revert to voice communications.
However, the flight crew may use CPDLC for emergency communications if it is either more expedient
or if voice contact cannot be established. Refer to paragraph 5.8.2 for guidelines on use.
Note. For ATN B1 aircraft, emergency message elements are not supported. See Appendix A,
paragraph A.4, for a list of emergency message elements.
5.1.3.6 Except as provided in paragraph 5.8.1.2, the flight crew should respond to a CPDLC
message via CPDLC, and should respond to a voice message via voice.
Note. This will lessen the opportunity for messages to get lost, discarded or unanswered between
the ATSU and the flight crew and cause unintended consequences.
5.1.3.7 If the intent of an uplink message is uncertain, the flight crew should respond to the
uplink message with DM 1 UNABLE and obtain clarification using voice.
Note.For FANS 1/A aircraft, some uplink messages do not have a DM 1 UNABLE response. On
these aircraft, the flight crew should respond with DM 3 ROGER and then obtain clarification via voice.
5.1.3.8 Regardless of whether CPDLC is being used, the flight crew should continuously monitor
VHF/HF/UHF guard frequency. In addition, the flight crew should continuously maintain a listening or
SELCAL watch on the specified backup or secondary frequency (frequencies). On aircraft capable of two
SATCOM channels, one channel may be selected to the phone number for the radio facility assigned to
the current ATSU to enable timely voice communications. The second channel may be selected to the
company phone number to enable timely voice communications with company dispatch.
5.2 Logon
5.2.1 General
5.2.1.1 A CPDLC connection requires a successfully completed logon procedure before the
ATSU can establish a CPDLC connection with the aircraft.
Note. Refer to paragraph 2.2.1.2 for an overview of the logon procedure.
5.2.1.2 Prior to initiating the logon, the flight crew should verify the following:
a) The aircraft identification provided when initiating the logon exactly matches the aircraft
identification (Item 7) of the filed flight plan;
b) The flight plan contains the correct aircraft registration in Item 18 prefixed by REG/;
c) The flight plan contains the correct aircraft address in Item 18 prefixed by CODE/, when
required;
5.2.1.3 If any of the information described in paragraph 5.2.1.2 do not match, the flight crew will
need to contact AOC or ATC, as appropriate, to resolve the discrepancy.
Note 1: In accordance with ICAO Doc 4444, the aircraft identification is either the:
a) ICAO designator for the aircraft operating agency followed by the flight identification; or
b) aircraft registration.
Note 2. The aircraft registration entered into the aircraft system can include a hyphen(-), even
though the aircraft registration in the flight plan message cannot include a hyphen.
Note 3.- The ATSU correlates the data sent in a logon request message with flight plan data. If the
data does not match, the ATSU will reject the logon request.
5.2.1.4 The flight crew should then manually initiate a logon using the logon address, as
indicated on aeronautical charts (See Figure 5-1 for example).
Note 1. Often the logon address is the same as the 4-letter facility designator but in some airspace
a different logon address is used. Refer to Appendix E.
Note 2. Some aircraft (see Appendix F, paragraph F.1) implement FANS 1/A and ATN B1
capabilities as separate systems and do not comply ith ED154A/DO305A. For these aircraft, the flight
crew will have to select the appropriate system (FANS 1/A or ATN B1) to initiate the logon.
Figure 5-1. Depiction of logon addresses and CPDLC/ADS-C services on en route chart
5.2.1.5 If there are no indications that the logon procedure was unsuccessful, the flight crew can
assume that the system is functioning normally and that they will receive a CPDLC connection prior to
entry into the next ATSUs airspace.
5.2.1.6 If an indication that the logon procedure was unsuccessful is received, the flight crew
should reconfirm that the logon information is correct per paragraphs 5.2.1.2 and 5.2.1.4 and reinitiate a
logon.
Note. If the logon information is correct and the logon process fails, see paragraph 5.9.3 for more
information.
5.2.1.7 Each time a CPDLC connection is established, the flight crew should ensure the identifier
displayed on the aircraft system matches the logon address for the controlling authority.
5.2.1.8 In the event of an unexpected CPDLC disconnect, the flight crew may attempt to
reinitiate a logon to resume data link operations.
5.2.1.9 The flight crew may receive a CPDLC free text message from the ATSU or a flight deck
indication regarding the use of the message latency monitor on FANS 1/A+ aircraft. When this message
is received, the flight crew should respond as described in Table 5-1 and in accordance with procedures
for the specific aircraft type.
Note 1. Procedures associated with the message latency monitor are applicable only in the
European Region and are described in Appendix E, paragraph E.4.3.2.
Table 5-1. Messages and indications regarding use of message latency monitor
Indication of delayed CPDLC uplink message (Some FANS 1/A+ aircraft only)
ATSU/ (any CPDLC uplink message displayed with indication of delayed message)
aircraft
system
5.2.2.1 When operating outside data link airspace, the flight crew should initiate a logon 10 to 25
minutes prior to entry into airspace where data link services are provided.
Note. When departing an aerodrome close to or within such airspace, this may require the logon
to be initiated prior to departure.
5.2.2.2 Where a data link service is only provided in upper airspace and where local procedures
do not dictate otherwise, the flight crew should log on to that ATSU in whose airspace a data link service
will first be used.
5.2.2.3 When failure of a data link connection is detected, the flight crew should terminate the
connection and then initiate a new logon with the current ATSU.
5.2.3.1 Under normal circumstances, the current and next ATSUs automatically transfer CPDLC
and ADS-C services. The transfer is seamless to the flight crew.
Note. The flight crew should not need to reinitiate a logon.
5.2.3.2 The flight crew should promptly respond to CPDLC uplinks to minimize the risk of an
open CPDLC uplink message when transferring to the next ATSU.
Note. If a flight is transferred to a new ATSU with an open CPDLC message, the message status
will change to ABORTED. If the flight crew has not yet received a response from the controller, the
downlink request will also display the ABORTED status. Refer also to Appendix F, paragraph F.8.
5.2.3.3 Prior to the point at which the current ATSU will transfer CPDLC and/or ADS-C
services, the flight crew may receive an instruction to close any open CPDLC messages.
5.2.3.4 When entering the next ATSUs airspace, the flight crew should confirm the successful
transfer from the current ATSU to the next ATSU by observing the change in the active center indication
provided by the aircraft system.
5.2.3.5 When required by local procedures, the flight crew should send DM 48 POSITION
REPORT [position report]. Alternatively, the flight crew may be required to respond to a CPDLC
message exchange initiated by the ATSU.
Note. Since FANS 1/A aircraft do not report that the downstream ATSU has become the CDA, the
only way to confirm that it has taken place is for the ATSU to receive a CPDLC message from the aircraft
(refer to Appendix E).
5.2.4.1 Prior to crossing the boundary, the active center may initiate transfer of voice
communications with the CPDLC connection transfer using any of the message elements containing
CONTACT or MONITOR. Refer to paragraph 4.2.3 for guidelines on the controllers use of these
message elements.
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5-8 Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD)
5.2.4.2 A CONTACT or MONITOR message instructs the flight crew to change to the specified
frequency and may include a position or time for when to change to the new frequency.
a) When a MONITOR message is received, the flight crew should change to the specified
frequency upon receipt of the instruction or at the specified time or position. The flight crew should not
establish voice contact on the frequency.
b) When a CONTACT message is received, the flight crew should change to the specified
frequency upon receipt of the instruction or at the specified time or position, and establish voice contact
on the frequency.
Note 1. Some States do not require HF SELCAL checks. If, following a MONITOR instruction, a
SELCAL check is specifically required by operator procedures, this will usually be accommodated on the
allocated frequency.
Note 2. If the next ATSU provides CPDLC services, the flight crew should not expect that CPDLC
will be terminated or suspended once voice contact is established per receipt of a CONTACT message,
unless otherwise advised per paragraph 4.2.4.4.
5.2.4.3 If the ATSU assigns a single HF frequency, the flight crew should select another
frequency from the same family as a secondary frequency.
Note. In areas of poor radio coverage, the controller may append UM 238 SECONDARY
FREQUENCY [frequency] to specify a secondary frequency.
5.2.5.1 The flight crew should consult the current ATSU prior to the manual termination of any
ADS contract with the aircraft, even if it is suspected to be unnecessary or that its termination has failed.
Note. ADS contracts are managed (e.g. established and terminated) by ATSUs per paragraph
4.5.3.
5.2.5.2 Approximately 15 minutes after exiting CPDLC and/or ADS-C service areas, the flight
crew should ensure there are no active CPDLC or ADS-C connections. Ensuring that connections are not
active eliminates the possibility of inadvertent or inappropriate use of the connections, and reduces
operating costs and loading of the system.
Note. Some ATSUs may maintain ADS contracts with an aircraft for a period of time (e.g. 15
minutes) after the aircraft has left the airspace.
5.3.1 General
5.3.1.1 When a CPDLC uplink is received, each flight crew member (e.g. pilot flying and pilot
monitoring) should read the message from the flight deck displays individually to ensure situational
awareness is maintained. Once the message has been individually read, the flight crew should then
discuss whether to respond to the message with DM 0 WILCO or DM 3 ROGER, as appropriate, or DM 1
UNABLE.
5.3.1.3 If multiple clearances are received in a single message, the flight crew should only
respond with DM 0 WILCO if all the clearances in the entire message can be complied with.
5.3.1.4 If the flight crew cannot comply with any portion of a multi-element message, the flight
crew should respond to the entire message with DM 1 UNABLE.
Note. The flight crew can only provide a single response to the entire multi-element uplink
message. The flight crew cannot respond to individual elements of a multi-element message and should
not execute any clearance contained in the message.
5.3.1.5 When an uplink responded to with DM 0 WILCO or DM 3 ROGER, the flight crew
should take appropriate action to comply with the clearance or instruction.
Note.- Although a DM 0 WILCO or DM 3 ROGER response technically closes the uplink message, in
some cases, other responses may follow to provide additional information, as requested, to operationally
close the message.
5.3.1.6 The flight crew should respond to an uplink message with the appropriate response(s), as
provided in Appendix A, paragraph A.4.
Note 1. The flight crew may need to perform some action before a subsequent CPDLC message
can be displayed.
Note 2.- For ATN-B1 systems, if the ground system does not receive a response within 120 seconds
from the time the uplink message was sent, the ATSU will send an ERROR message for display to the
flight crew and both the aircraft and ground system close the dialogue.
5.3.1.7 When a message is received containing only free text, or a free text element combined
with elements that do not require a response, the flight crew should respond to the message with DM 3
ROGER before responding to any query that may be contained in the free text message element.
Example:
Controller UM 169b REPORT GROUND SPEED.
(free text)
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
5.3.2.1 System performance requirements have been established to support reduced separation
standards. Specific latency times have been allocated to the technical performance, and flight crew and
controller response times. Regional/State monitoring agencies analyze actual performance to ensure the
technical and operational components of the system meet required standards. For example, to support
RCP 240 operations, the flight crew is expected to be able to respond to a CPDLC uplink message within
one minute.
5.3.2.2 For an ATN-B1 aircraft, the flight crew should respond to a CPDLC uplink message
within 100 seconds to prevent the CPDLC uplink message from automatically timing out.
Note.- ATN-B1 aircraft use a CPDLC message response timer, which is set at 100 seconds upon
receipt of the CPDLC uplink message. If the flight crew has not sent a response within this time:
a) the flight crew is no longer provided with any response prompts for the message;
b) the aircraft sends an ERROR message for display to the controller; and
c) the aircraft and ground systems close the dialogue.
5.3.2.3 When a CPDLC uplink message automatically times out, the flight crew should contact
ATC by voice.
5.3.2.4 The flight crew should respond to CPDLC messages as soon as practical after they are
received. For most messages, the flight crew will have adequate time to read and respond within one
minute. However, the flight crew should not be pressured to respond without taking adequate time to fully
understand the CPDLC message and to satisfy other higher priority operational demands. If additional
time is needed, the flight crew should send a DM 2 STANDBY response.
Note. For ATN B1 aircraft systems, if the flight crew does not send an operational response
within 100 seconds after the DM 2 STANDBY was sent, the CPDLC uplink message will time out (refer to
paragraph 5.3.2.3).
5.3.2.5 If a DM 2 STANDBY response has been sent, the flight crew should provide a
subsequent closure response to the CPDLC message.
Note 1. In the case of a DM 2 STANDBY response, the uplink message remains open until the
flight crew responds with a DM 0 WILCO orDM 1 UNABLE. If the closure response is not received
within a reasonable period of time, the controller is expected to query the flight crew per paragraph
4.3.1.2.
Note 2. Transmission times for messages may vary for a number of reasons including the type of
transmission media, network loading, or the criteria for transitioning from one media to another (e.g.
VHF/Satcom). Operational response times may vary depending on workload and complexity of the
instruction or clearance.
5.3.3.1 Conditional clearances require special attention by the flight crew, particularly for a non-
native English speaking flight crew. A conditional clearance is an ATC clearance given to an aircraft
with certain conditions or restrictions such as changing a flight level based on a time or place. Conditional
clearances add to the operational efficiency of the airspace. Conditional clearances, however, have been
associated with a large number of operational errors. Following guidelines provided in paragraphs 5.1.2
and 5.3.1, such as each flight crew member individually reading the uplinked clearances and conducting
briefings with augmented crews, should aid in reducing errors.
5.3.3.2 The flight crew should correctly respond to conditional clearances containing AT or
BY, taking into account the intended meaning and any automation features provided by the aircraft
systems. Table 5-2 clarifies the intended meaning for conditional clearance message elements. (Refer
also to Appendix A, paragraph A.3.)
5.3.4.1 EXPECT uplink messages are typically received in response to a flight crew request,
and, in some cases, when procedurally required per paragraph 4.3.3.
5.3.5.1 CPDLC allows aircraft systems to be capable of loading route clearance information from
CPDLC messages directly into an FMS. The flight crew can use this capability to minimize the potential
for data entry errors when executing clearances involving loadable data. It also enables advanced air
traffic services supported by data link, such as a re-route or a tailored arrival, as described in Chapter 6,
which otherwise may not be possible via voice.
Note. Not all aircraft have the capability to load information from CPDLC message directly into
the FMS.
5.3.5.2 If a clearance is received that can be automatically loaded into the FMS, the flight crew
should load the clearance into the FMS and review it before responding with DM 0 WILCO.
5.3.5.3 The flight crew should verify that the route modification in the FMS is consistent with
the CPDLC route clearance. A discontinuity in a CPDLC route clearance is not necessarily a reason to
respond to the clearance with DM 1 UNABLE, as these can be appropriate in some circumstances.
5.3.5.4 The flight crew should respond to the clearance with DM 1 UNABLE when:
a) The FMS indicates that it cannot load the clearance (e.g. partial clearance loaded or unable to
load); or
Note. The FMS checks the clearance to ensure it is correctly formatted and compatible with the
FMS navigation database.
b) The FMS indicates any inconsistencies or discontinuities with the route modification that are
not addressed by AIP (or other appropriate publication) or cannot be resolved by the flight crew.
5.3.5.5 The flight crew should use CPDLC or voice to clarify any clearance that was responded
to with DM 1 UNABLE due to any loading failures, route discontinuities or inconsistencies.
5.3.5.6 If the clearance loads successfully and is acceptable, the flight crew may execute an FMS
route modification and respond to the clearance with DM 0 WILCO.
Note. The flight crew will ensure the route in the FMC matches the ATC clearance.
5.4.1 General
5.4.1.1 Downlink messages can only be sent to the ATSU that holds the active CPDLC
connection. To provide situational awareness, procedures should ensure that each flight crew member has
read each downlink message before it is sent.
5.4.1.2 When the aircraft has an active CPDLC connection with an ATSU, the flight crew should
downlink a clearance request only if the flight is in that ATSUs airspace.
5.4.1.3 The flight crew should use standard downlink message elements to compose and send
clearance requests, CPDLC position reports, and other requested reports. Additional qualifying standard
message elements, such as DM 65 DUE TO WEATHER, should also be used as needed.
Note. The use of standard message elements will minimize the risk of input errors,
misunderstandings, and confusion, and facilitate use by a non-native English speaking flight crew. The
use of standard message elements allows the aircraft and ground systems to automatically process the
information in the messages that are exchanged. For example, the flight crew can automatically load
clearance information into the FMS and review the clearance, the ground system can automatically
update flight plan data for route conformance monitoring, and both aircraft and ground systems can
associate responses to messages.
5.4.1.4 To avoid potential ambiguity, the flight crew should avoid sending multiple clearance
requests in a single downlink message. For example, the flight crew should send separate downlink
messages for DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO [level] and DM 22 REQUEST DIRECT TO [position] unless
there is an operational need to combine them in a single message (i.e. the flight crew does not want to
climb unless they can re-route).
5.4.1.5 When a closure response to an open CPDLC downlink message is not received within a
reasonable time period, the flight crew should:
a) For a FANS 1/A aircraft, send a query using one of the Negotiation Requests messages or a DM
67 [free text] message rather than resending the downlink message. Alternatively, the flight crew may
use voice communication to clarify the status of the open CPDLC downlink message; or
b) For an ATN-B1 aircraft, the flight crew should use voice communication to resolve the
operational situation resulting from the timed out CPDLC downlink message.
Note 1. A closure response is a response that operationally closes the dialogue. A UM 1
STANDBY response to an open CPDLC downlink message does not operationally close the dialogue.
Note 2. The use of a CPDLC free text message by a FANS 1/A aircraft avoids multiple open
messages involving the same downlink message.
Note 3.- ATN-B1 ground systems will reject duplicate requests and return an ERROR message for
display to the flight crew TOO MANY (dialogue type) REQUESTS - EXPECT ONLY ONE REPLY.
Example:
Flight crew DM 9 REQUEST CLIMB TO FL350
Reasonable period of time has passed
5.4.1.6 If the flight crew receives an indication of non-delivery of a downlink message, they may
elect to re-send an identical message within a reasonable amount of time or as required. Alternatively,
they may use voice communication to clarify the status of the downlink message.
5.4.2.1 The flight crew should avoid the use of the free text message element. However, its use
may offer a viable solution to enhance operational capability.
Note 1. The use of standard message elements is intended to reduce the possibility of
misinterpretation and ambiguity.
Note 2. A free text message (such as DM 67k REVISED ETA [position] [time]) does not require a
response from the ATSU.
5.4.2.2 Free text messages should be used only when an appropriate standard message element
does not exist.
5.4.2.3 When composing a free text message, the flight crew should use standard ATS
phraseology and format and avoid nonessential words and phrases. Abbreviations should only be included
in free text messages when they form part of standard ICAO phraseology, for example, ETA.
5.4.3.1 While ATSUs should provide CPDLC service using the complete message set provided
in Appendix A, some ATSUs provide a CPDLC service using a limited message set. The flight crew
should be are aware of any unsupported downlink message elements that are described in regional or
State documentation.
5.4.3.2 If a downlink message, containing a message element that is not supported by the ATSU,
is sent, the flight crew will typically receive the uplink message, UM 162 or UM 169u MESSAGE NOT
SUPPORTED BY THIS ATS UNIT. If this message is received, the flight crew should respond to the
message with DM 3 ROGER and use voice for the communication transaction.
5.4.4.1 The flight crew should respond to CPDLC reports and confirmation requests, when
appropriate.
Note 1. ATSUs may send a CPDLC message that combines a REPORT instruction with a
clearance. The flight crew may use automation, procedures, and/or a combination to remind them when
to send the reports requested in the CPDLC message.
5.5.1 General
5.5.1.1 ADS-C allows the ATSU to obtain position reports from the aircraft without flight crew
action to update the current flight plan, to check conformance and to provide emergency alerting.
Note. In airspace where ADS-C services are available, the flight crew need not send position
reports via voice or CPDLC, except as described in paragraph 5.6.3 or when required by regional
supplementary procedures or AIP (or other appropriate publication).
5.5.1.2 When using ADS-C services, the flight crew should check to ensure ADS-C is armed
prior to initiating a logon with an ATSU.
Note. The flight crew can switch ADS-C off, which will cancel any ADS-C connections with the
aircraft. While ADS-C is disabled, the ground system will not be able to establish an ADS-C connection.
5.5.1.3 Normally, the flight crew should leave ADS-C armed for the entire flight. However, in
airspace where ADS-C services are available, if the flight crew switches ADS-C off for any reason, or
they receive indication of avionics failure leading to loss of ADS-C service, the flight crew should advise
ATC and follow alternative procedures for position reporting per paragraphs 5.6 and 5.9.4.4.
5.5.1.4 In airspace where ADS-C services are not available, the flight crew may switch ADS-C
off to cancel inadvertent ADS-C connections. In such cases, the flight crew should ensure that ADS-C is
armed when re-entering airspace where ADS-C services are again available.
5.5.1.5 If ADS-C is disabled in an ADS-C environment, the ATSU may send the flight crew an
inquiry per paragraph 5.9.4.6.
5.6.1 General
5.6.1.1 The flight crew should ensure that waypoints are sequenced correctly. If an aircraft
passes abeam a waypoint by more than the aircraft FMS waypoint sequencing parameter, the flight crew
should sequence the waypoints in the FMS, as appropriate.
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Note. As shown in Figure 5-2, when an aircraft passes abeam a waypoint in excess of the defined
sequencing parameter (refer to Appendix F, paragraph F.7) for specific aircraft types), the FMS will not
sequence the active waypoint. If the flight crew does not sequence the waypoint, incorrect information
will be contained in ADS-C reports, CPDLC position reports and FMC waypoint position reports the
next waypoint in these reports will actually be the waypoint that the aircraft has already passed.
Sequencing
parameter
Next Next + 1
FMS route
A B
5.6.1.2 When using CPDLC or FMC WPR to provide position information, the flight crew
should use latitudes and longitudes encoded as waypoint names in the ICAO format.
Note 1. The flight crew should not use the ARINC 424 format.
Note 2. ARINC 424 describes a 5-character latitude/longitude format for aircraft navigation
databases (e.g. 10N40 describes a lat/long of 10N140W). The ATSU will likely reject any downlink
message containing waypoint names in the ARINC 424 format.
5.6.2.1 When ADS-C is not available, the flight crew should conduct position reporting by voice
or CPDLC. When using CPDLC, the flight crew should send DM 48 POSITION REPORT [position
report] whenever an ATC waypoint is sequenced, (or passed abeam when offset flight is in progress).
5.6.2.2 When using CPDLC for position reporting, the flight crew should send position reports
only at compulsory reporting points and ensure that the position and next position information applies to
compulsory reporting points, unless requested otherwise by ATC. The ensuing significant point after the
next position may be either a compulsory or non-compulsory reporting point (Refer AIREP form ICAO
Doc 4444, Appendix 1).
5.6.3.2 The flight crew should include only ATC waypoints in cleared segments of the aircraft
active flight plan.
Note. If the flight crew inserts non-ATC waypoints (e.g. mid-points) into the aircraft active flight
plan and activates the change, the aircraft system may trigger an ADS-C waypoint change event report at
the non-ATC waypoint, or include information about the non-ATC waypoint in the predicted route group,
as well as the intermediate and fixed projected intent groups. As a result, the ADS-C report will include
information about the non-ATC waypoint, which is not expected by the ATC ground system.
5.6.3.3 The flight crew should maintain the active route in the aircraft system to be the same as
the ATC cleared route of flight.
Note. If the flight crew activates a non-ATC cleared route into the aircraft system, the ADS-C
reports will include information that will indicate the aircraft is flying a route that is deviating from the
cleared route.
5.6.3.4 When reporting by ADS-C only, the flight crew should include ATC waypoints in the
aircraft active flight plan even if they are not compulsory reporting points.
5.6.4.1 Prior to using FMC WPR for position reporting, the flight crew should verify the aircraft
identification (ACID) entered into the system is the same as filed in Item 7 of the flight plan.
5.6.4.2 When FMC waypoint position reports are manually initiated, the flight crew should send
the report within 3 minutes of crossing each waypoint. If this cannot be achieved, the FMC WPR should
not be triggered, but a voice report made instead.
5.6.4.3 The flight crew may assume that the estimate for the next waypoint, shown on the FMS
at the time a waypoint is crossed, is the estimate transmitted to ATC in the FMC waypoint position report.
If that estimate subsequently changes by more than 2 minutes, the flight crew should transmit a revised
estimate via voice to the ATSU concerned as soon as possible.
Note. Some regions permit a revised FMC WPR to be transmitted to update a previously notified
estimate.
5.6.4.4 The flight crew should avoid inserting non-ATC waypoints (e.g. mid-points) in route
segments because non-ATC waypoints may prevent the provision of proper ETA data in the FMS reports
required for ATC purposes.
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5.6.4.5 If the flight identification portion of the aircraft identification contains an alphabetic
character (such as ABC132A or ABC324W, where 132A or 324W is the flight identification) the flight
cannot participate in FMC WPR (see paragraph 3.4.1.4 for more information regarding this limitation).
5.7.1 General
5.7.1.1 The flight crew may use CPDLC to request a weather deviation clearance or an offset
clearance. The difference between a weather deviation and an offset is portrayed in Figure 5-3.
a) A weather deviation clearance authorizes the flight crew to deviate up to the specified distance
at their discretion in the specified direction from the route in the flight plan; and
b) An offset clearance authorizes the flight crew to operate at the specified distance in the
specified direction from the route in the flight plan. A clearance is required to deviate from this offset
route.
Note. CPDLC offers more timely coordination of weather deviation clearances. However, the
flight crew may deviate due to weather under the provisions of ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 15.2.3. The
extent to which weather deviations are conducted may be a consideration when applying reduced
separations, as noted in ICAO Doc 4444, paragraph 5.4.2.6.4.3.
5.7.1.2 Flight crews should use the correct message element when requesting an off-route
clearance.
Note. The difference between a weather deviation and an offset affects how ATC separate aircraft.
Offset
Weather
deviation
FMS route
5.7.2.1 When requesting a weather deviation or offset clearance, the flight crew should specify
the distance off route with respect to the cleared route of the aircraft. If the flight crew has received an
off-route clearance and then requests and receives a subsequent off-route clearance, the new clearance
supersedes the previous clearance (i.e. only the most recent clearance is valid).
20 NM
FMS route
Example 2: As shown in Figure 5-5, the flight crew is operating on a weather deviation clearance up to
20 NM left of route and then requests another weather deviation clearance to operate up to a further
30NM left of route. In the clearance request, the flight crew specifies a deviation distance from the
cleared route rather than from the current weather deviation clearance. The controller issues the
appropriate clearance.
Flight crew DM 27 REQUEST WEATHER DEVIATION UP TO 50NM LEFT OF ROUTE
Controller UM 82 CLEARED TO DEVIATE UP TO 50NM LEFT OF ROUTE
UM 127 REPORT BACK ON ROUTE
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
20 NM
FMS route
Example 3: As shown in Figure 5-6, the aircraft then requests a weather deviation clearance to operate
30NM right of route. The controller issues the appropriate clearance. The flight crew expeditiously
navigates from one side of route to the other in accordance with the above clearance.
Note. The ATSU applies the appropriate separation standards during the maneuvers.
(Old) Weather
deviation clearance
50 NM
(Old) Weather
deviation clearance
20 NM
FMS route
30 NM
(New) Weather
deviation clearance
5.7.3.1 There are a number of valid formats for the CPDLC [direction] variable. A number of
aircraft types, however, can only request one direction (left or right) in weather deviation requests. When
operating these aircraft types, the flight crew should request a deviation left and right of route using the
following procedures:
a) Construct a weather deviation request for a deviation on one side of route using DM 27
REQUEST WEATHER DEVIATION UP TO [specified distance] [direction] OF ROUTE; and
b) Append free text DM 67ac AND [specified distance] [direction] describing the distance to the
other side of route.
Example: The flight crew requests a deviation left and right of route. The controller issues the
appropriate clearance.
Flight crew DM 27 REQUEST WEATHER DEVIATION UP TO 20NM LEFT OF ROUTE.
DM 67ac AND 20NM RIGHT
Controller UM 82 CLEARED TO DEVIATE UP TO 20NM EITHER SIDE OF ROUTE
UM 127 REPORT BACK ON ROUTE
Flight crew DM 0 WILCO
5.7.4.1 When the flight crew no longer needs the deviation clearance and is back on the cleared
route, the flight crew should send a DM 41 BACK ON ROUTE report.
a) If during the weather deviation, the flight crew receives a clearance to proceed direct to a
waypoint and the flight crew responds to the clearance with DM 0 WILCO the aircraft is considered
to be on the cleared route. Therefore, the flight crew should send a DM 41 BACK ON ROUTE report
after they execute the direct to clearance; and
b) If the aircraft is off route during a weather deviation clearance and proceeding direct to a
waypoint on the cleared route, the flight crew should send a DM 41 BACK ON ROUTE report after the
aircraft has sequenced the waypoint on the cleared route.
Note. If a DM 41 BACK ON ROUTE report is received while the aircraft is still off route, the
incorrect information provided to ATC may affect the separation standards in use. Alternatively, the
flight crew may consider requesting a clearance direct to the waypoint on receipt of the uplink
clearance, the procedure specified in item a) above applies.
5.8.1 General
5.8.1.1 In accordance with established emergency procedures, the ATSU within whose airspace
the aircraft is operating remains in control of the flight. If the flight crew takes action contrary to a
clearance that the controller has already coordinated with another sector or ATSU and further
coordination is not possible in the time available, then the flight crew performs this action under their
emergency command authority.
5.8.1.2 The flight crew will use whatever means are appropriate (i.e. CPDLC and/or voice) to
communicate during an emergency.
5.8.1.3 During an emergency, the flight crew would normally revert to voice communications.
However, the flight crew may use CPDLC for emergency communications if it is either more expedient
or if voice contact cannot be established.
Note. For ATN B1 aircraft, emergency message elements are not supported. See Appendix A,
paragraph A.4, for a list of emergency message elements.
5.8.2.3 To check for inadvertent activation of the ADS-C emergency mode using CPDLC, the
controller may send the following CPDLC free text uplink or use equivalent voice phraseology:
Controller UM 169ak CONFIRM ADS-C EMERGENCY
The flight crew should then check the status of the aircrafts ADS-C emergency mode and if the
emergency mode has been activated inadvertently, the flight crew should select ADS-C emergency mode
to off and advise the controller either by voice or by the following CPDLC messages.
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER, then (free text)
DM 67ab ADS-C RESET
5.9.1 General
5.9.1.1 Refer to current ICAO procedures for standards and recommended practices on complete
communications failure (CPDLC and voice).
5.9.2.1 When CPDLC fails and open messages existed at the time of failure, the flight crew
should re-commence any dialogues involving those messages by voice.
5.9.2.2 The flight crew should use the standard voice phraseology under certain conditions as
indicated in Table 5-3.
Note. See paragraph 4.9.2.2 for standard voice phraseology used by the controller or radio
operator.
5.9.2.3 Except as provided in Table 5-3 and paragraph 4.9.2.2, voice communication procedures
related to data link operations are not standardized among the regions. Refer to Appendix E for any
additional voice communication procedures for a specific region.
5.9.3.1 In the event of a logon failure, the flight crew should confirm the aircraft identification
matches the information provided in the FPL and, as appropriate:
a) Make the necessary corrections; and then
b) Re-initiate the logon.
5.9.3.2 If no reason for the failure is evident, the flight crew should:
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a) Contact the ATSU by voice to advise of the failure; and
b) Contact AOC to advise of the failure.
Note. The ATSU will attempt to resolve the problem.
5.9.3.3 The flight crew should report log-on failures to the appropriate State/regional monitoring
agency in accordance with procedures established by the operator (paragraph 3.2.2 refers).
5.9.4.1 When operating CPDLC and the aircraft data link system provides an indication of
degraded performance resulting from a failure or loss of connectivity, the flight crew should notify the
ATSU of the failure as soon as practicable, including:
a) When operating outside of VHF coverage area and the SATCOM data link system fails; and
b) When operating in airspace where ATS surveillance services are provided and the VHF data
link system fails.
Note. Timely notification is appropriate to ensure that the ATSU has time to assess the situation
and apply a revised separation standard, if necessary.
5.9.4.2 If an automatic transfer of the CPDLC connection does not occur at the boundary, the
flight crew should contact the transferring ATSU by sending DM 67j CPDLC TRANSFER FAILURE (or
voice equivalent), advising them that the transfer has not occurred.
5.9.4.3 In the event of an aircraft data link system failure, the flight crew should notify the ATSU
of the situation using the following voice phraseology:
Flight crew CPDLC FAILURE. CONTINUING ON VOICE
Controller ROGER. CONTINUE ON VOICE
Note. The flight crew continues to use voice until the functionality of the aircraft system can be re-
established.
5.9.4.4 When the ATSU provides notification that the CPDLC service has failed or will be shut
down, the flight crew should follow the instructions provided in the notification (e.g. disconnect CPDLC
and continue on voice until informed by the ATSU that the data link system has resumed normal CPDLC
operations).
5.9.4.5 If only the ADS-C service is terminated, then during that time period, the flight crew
should conduct position reporting by other means (e.g. CPDLC, if available, or via voice).
5.9.4.6 If the ATSU cannot establish ADS contracts with an aircraft, or if ADS-C reporting from
an aircraft ceases, the flight crew may have inadvertently switched ADS-C off. If CPDLC is still
available and the flight crew receives the CPDLC message UM 169an CONFIRM ADS-C ARMED (or
voice equivalent), they should check to ensure that ADS-C is not switched off and respond to the
controller as follows:
Controller UM 169an CONFIRM ADS-C ARMED
5.9.4.7 If the aircraft is operating on a vertical profile that is different from the profile
programmed in the FMS, the time estimates in the ADS-C report will be inaccurate. If the flight crew
receives the message UM 169h ADS-C ESTIMATES APPEAR INACCURATE. CHECK FMS, the
flight crew should check the FMS, correct any the discrepancy and respond to the CPDLC message with
DM 3 ROGER.
5.9.5.1 When an ATSU and an aircraft cannot communicate, the controller may use CPDLC or
voice to relay messages. When it had been determined to use CPDLC, the controller may first confirm
that the CPDLC-capable aircraft is in contact with the subject aircraft. The flight crew should concur that
they will act as an intermediary.
5.9.5.2 When using CPDLC to relay messages, the flight crew should:
a) Only respond with DM 3 ROGER to CPDLC messages consisting entirely of free text; and
b) Respond with DM 1 UNABLE to any CPDLC message containing standard message elements
to avoid confusion.
5.9.5.3 After sending DM 3 ROGER, the flight crew should only use free text to respond to the
controllers uplink free text message.
Example, using:
a) UM 169ap RELAY TO [call sign] [unit name] [text of message to be relayed]; and
b) DM 67ae RELAY FROM [call sign] [response parameters]; where.
1) [call sign] is expressed as the radiotelephony call sign, rather than the ICAO three letter or
IATA two letter designator; and
2) [response parameters] conform to the guidelines provided paragraph 5.4.2.3.
Controller UM 169ap RELAY TO UNITED345 OAKLAND CLEARS UNITED345 CLIMB
TO AND MAINTAIN FL340
Flight crew DM 3 ROGER
Flight crew DM 67ae RELAY FROM UNITED345 CLIMBING FL340
6.1.1 General
6.1.1.1 When re-routing an aircraft, the flight crew, AOC and each ATSU should follow
standardized procedures using appropriate CPDLC message elements. For flight crews performing re-
routes, see paragraph 5.3.5.
6.1.1.2 The availability of new weather forecasts on long-haul routes may provide the potential
for economic and/or safety benefits for operators by allowing them to propose revised routes for airborne
aircraft.
6.1.1.3 The flight crew may initiate a re-route request. Each ATSU along the route may initiate
an amended route clearance.
6.1.1.4 For flights that cross the common boundary between two automated ATSUs, the ATSUs
can coordinate revised route information, reducing the requirement for AOC to transmit modification
messages to all the ATSUs along the route.
6.1.1.5 If a re-route clearance changes the NEXT or NEXT+1 waypoint, the flight crew should
update the re-route clearance with most current available weather information for the new
waypoints/levels.
6.1.2.1 The purpose of the dynamic airborne re-route procedure (DARP) is to allow aeronautical
operational control (AOC) to initiate the process for an airborne aircraft to be issued an amended route
clearance by the ATSU.
6.1.2.2 An operator should only initiate these procedures where the re-route will occur in FIRs
where DARP services are available (Refer to Appendix E).
Note. DARP service requires Air Traffic Services Interfacility Data Communications (AIDC) to
permit the electronic exchange of revised route information.
6.1.2.3 To be eligible for DARP, the operator will need an aircraft with operational CPDLC
capability. Additionally, the flight crew should downlink the route request:
a) At least 60 minutes prior to crossing the next boundary to permit AIDC messaging to take place
between the affected ATSUs. This time period may be reduced between ATSUs that support AIDC CDN
messaging to coordinate the modification of route information; and
b) At least 20 minutes prior to the divergence waypoint to allow processing time by the ATSU and
the flight crew.
6.1.2.4 Table 6-1 provides the procedures for an AOC initiated re-route and Figure 6-1 provides
an overview of the DARP process.
c) The AOC uplinks the proposed route to the aircraft via ACARS.
Flight crew a) Where applicable, delete any waypoints on the proposed route that have
already been sequenced.
(Step 2)
b) Providing that the proposed route is acceptable to the flight crew, downlink the
route request to the controlling ATSU using the CPDLC message element:
DM 24 REQUEST CLEARANCE [route clearance] or REQUEST [route clearance]
where the first fix in the route clearance is the next waypoint ahead of the aircraft.
Note 4. The route request may also contain additional information such as
departure airport, destination airport, etc.
Note 5. Flight crew procedures should include guidance on downlinking CPDLC
route clearance requests.
Who Procedures
ATSU a) Where the requested clearance is available, uplink the amended route clearance
to the aircraft.
(Step 3)
Example:
UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance]
where [position] = [(fix1)] is the next waypoint ahead of the aircraft and [route clearance]
= [(fix2) (fix3) ].
Note 6. The route clearance may also contain additional information such as
departure airport, destination airport, etc.
Note 7. On occasions, other CPDLC message elements may be more appropriate
than UM 83.
Flight crew a) On receipt of a CPDLC route clearance from the ATSU, the flight crew should:
(Step 4) 1) Load the uplink into the FMS and review the clearance. If the clearance is
acceptable, respond with DM 0 WILCO to confirm that the flight crew will comply with
the clearance; or
2) Otherwise:
i) Respond with DM 1 UNABLE; and
ii) Continue in accordance with the current ATC clearance.
b) Where the requested clearance is rejected by the ATSU, the flight crew should
continue in accordance with the existing clearance.
c) The flight crew should request new route data from AOC.
X Y Z
XXXX
A B C D E I
1 2
F G H
Note. In this example, by the time the clearance is uplinked, the aircraft has passed B
and so this is not included in the clearance. Point C must also be removed from the
2 [route clearance] parameter of UM 83 because point C is the [position] at which the
reroute clearance begins.
6.1.2.5 While the method described in Figure 6-1, step (2), is the preferred method, the following
examples show how other CPDLC route clearance message elements could be used in this scenario:
a) UM 83 AT [E] CLEARED [X Y Z I];
b) UM 80 CLEARED [C D E X Y Z I]; or
c) UM 79 CLEARED TO [I] VIA [C D E X Y Z].
Note. When using UM 79, the position [I] should be a position on the original route of the aircraft
6.1.3.1 The purpose of the ATC initiated re-route procedure is to allow an ATSU to initiate the
process to issue an amended route clearance to an airborne aircraft.
6.1.3.2 ATC should be aware that any waypoint that is sent in an uplink message and loaded as
part of a new route in the FMS will not contain forecast weather data. It does not make any difference
whether the waypoint was previously in the route or not. As a consequence, the flight crew will lose from
the FMS all forecast weather data for waypoints that were previously in the route but are uploaded again
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as part of the new route. ATC should therefore, as far as possible, restrict the uplinked waypoints to that
part of the route that is being amended. Some flight crews may be able to request the missing forecast
weather data from the operator.
6.1.3.3 If the re-route clearance changes the NEXT or NEXT+1 waypoint, then ATC may
receive an ADS-C report based on zero wind at the next waypoint which may result in an inaccurate
estimate for that waypoint.
Note. See also paragraph 6.1.1.5.
6.1.3.4 ATC should uplink the re-route as soon as practicable to allow processing time by the
flight crew prior to the divergence waypoint. For those cases where the aircraft is getting close to the
divergence waypoint when the clearance is issued, the controller should consider the option of clearing
the aircraft direct to the next waypoint.
6.1.3.5 If the aircraft has passed the divergence waypoint when the CPDLC re-route message is
received, the flight crew should select DM 1 UNABLE and continue on the currently cleared route.
6.1.3.6 Aircraft operators should establish procedures for the flight crew to deal with clearances
that create route discontinuities. Such procedures should include the flight crew taking an initiative to
obtain further route clearance before reaching the waypoint where the route discontinuity occurs if such
route clearance has not been received from ATC a reasonable time before reaching the discontinuity
waypoint.
6.1.3.7 ATC should only use UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance] to issue CPDLC
re-route clearances if the following conditions are satisfied:
a) The route is specified to destination; and
b) The [position] in UM 83 is on the currently cleared route.
Note.All forecast weather data after [position] is lost from the FMS when the new route is
activated.
6.1.3.8 ATC should only use UM 80 CLEARED [route clearance] to issue CPDLC re-route
clearances if the route is specified from the aircraft present position to destination. All forecast weather
data is lost from the FMS when the new route is activated.
6.1.3.9 When using UM 79 CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance], ATC should not
populate the [position] field with the destination airport unless the route is specified to destination. All
forecast weather data for the uplinked waypoints is lost from the FMS when the new route is activated.
6.1.3.10 The [position] in UM 79 CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance] does NOT
change the clearance limit for the flight. The clearance limit remains unchanged unless explicitly changed
by ATC. Although UM 79 semantically resembles a clearance limit (CLEARED TO [position] VIA
[route]), it is important to note that the FMS has no concept of a clearance limit. The word TO in UM
79 merely signifies the far end of the route segment that is being changed. Although it may coincidentally
be identical to the clearance limit previously specified by ATC, this will not normally be the case.
6.1.3.11 Table 6-2 provides the procedures for an ATC initiated re-route, and figures provide an
overview of the process for the following cases:
Who Procedures
ATSU a) Uplink an amended route clearance to the aircraft and append the [reason] if
possible.
(Step 1)
Example:
UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance] UM 166 DUE TO TRAFFIC
Flight crew a) On receipt of a CPDLC route clearance initiated by an ATSU, the flight crew
should:
(Step 2)
1) Load the uplink into the FMS and review the clearance. If the clearance is
acceptable, respond with DM 0 WILCO to confirm that the flight crew will comply with
the clearance; or
2) Otherwise:
i) Respond with DM 1 UNABLE; and
ii) Continue in accordance with the current ATC clearance.
b) Where an uplinked clearance is acceptable to the flight crew but creates a route
discontinuity, the flight crew should proceed to overcome the potential discontinuity by
applying their existing company practices.
E F
D
C
B
A
X Y
1 a) ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED TO [E] VIA [A B C X Y] to the aircraft using
UM 79 CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance]. There is no discontinuity because the
uplink fix (E) is in the existing cleared flight plan; or
Note 1. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for waypoints A, B, C, D, waypoints X, Y
do not contain any forecast weather data, forecast weather data for waypoints E, F, . remains
intact.
b) ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED [A B C X Y E F ] to the aircraft using UM 80
CLEARED [route clearance]. There is no discontinuity because the entire route has been replaced.
The route must be specified to destination; or
Note 2. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for the whole route.
c) ATC uplinks the clearance AT [C] CLEARED [X Y E F ] to the aircraft using UM 83
AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance]. There is no discontinuity because the entire route after
C was specified. The route must be specified to destination.
Note 3. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for all waypoints after C.
2 The flight crew responds to the clearance with DM 0 WILCO or DM 1 UNABLE, as appropriate.
Figure 6-2. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is on the current route and
there is no route discontinuity
G H
F
E
D
C
B
A
X Z
Y
1 ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED TO [Z] VIA [A B C X Y] to the aircraft using UM 79
CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance].
Note 1. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for waypoints A, B, C waypoints. X, Y, Z
do not contain any forecast weather data. Forecast weather data for waypoints D, E F, G, H etc
remains intact.
Note 2. In this case, ATC should not use CPDLC message elements UM 80 CLEARED
[route clearance] or UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance].
Figure 6-3. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is on the current route and
there is route discontinuity
F
E
D
C
B
A
X Y
1 a) ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED TO [E] VIA [X Y] to the aircraft using UM 79
CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance]. There is no discontinuity at E because the uplink
fix (E) is in the existing cleared flight plan; or
Note 1. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for waypoints A, B, C, D, waypoints X, Y
do not contain any forecast weather data, forecast weather data for waypoints E, F, etc, remains
intact).
b) ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED [X, Y, E, F ] to the aircraft using UM 80
CLEARED [route clearance]. The entire route is replaced and the route must be specified to
destination.
Note 2. Forecast weather data in the FMS is lost for the whole route.
Note 3. The clearance in a) and b) above takes immediate effect and, since the first fix
specified (X) is not on the existing route of flight, the new route effectively starts with present
position direct X, although this is not explicitly stated in the uplink message.
Note 4. In this case, ATC should not use CPDLC message element UM 83 AT [position]
CLEARED [route clearance].
2 The flight crew responds to the clearance with DM 0 WILCO or DM 1 UNABLE, as appropriate.
Figure 6-4. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is not on the current route
and there is no route discontinuity
H I
F G
D E
C
B
A
X
Y Z
1 ATC uplinks the clearance CLEARED TO [Z] VIA [X Y] to the aircraft using UM 79 CLEARED
TO [position] VIA [route clearance].
Note 1. Waypoints X, Y, Z do not contain any forecast weather data, forecast weather data
for waypoints A, B, C, D, E, F,G, H, I etc remains intact).
Note 2. The clearance above takes immediate effect and, since the first fix specified (X) is
not on the existing route of flight, the new route effectively starts with "present position direct X,
although this is not explicitly stated in the uplink message.
Note 3. In this case, ATC should not use CPDLC message elements UM 80 CLEARED
[route clearance] or UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance].
Figure 6-5. ATC initiated re-route first waypoint in the new route is not on the current route
and there is route discontinuity
XXXX
A B C D E I
F G H
2 The flight crew responds to the clearance with DM 0 WILCO, immediately loading the clearance
into the FMC and proceeding direct to the cleared direct-to fix I.
Figure 6-6. ATC initiated re-route aircraft is cleared direct to a fix that is located downstream
in the current route
6.2.1 General
6.2.1.1 The tailored arrival (TA) is a 4-dimensional (4-D) arrival procedure, based on an
optimized ATC clearance, including, as necessary, vertical and/or speed restrictions, from the aircraft's
current position, normally just prior to top of descent, to the designated destination runway. This
optimized ATC clearance, or TA clearance, is issued via CPDLC data link message(s) to the aircraft and,
upon flight crew selection, automatically loaded into the aircraft's FMS (i.e. 4-D trajectory guidance).
The TA clearance generally consists of the lateral path, vertical and speed constraints, published approach
procedure, and runway assignment.
6.2.1.2 This section provides guidelines and procedures for delivering and executing the TA
clearance. These guidelines and procedures are intended for ANSPs that provide the TA service and
participating operators.
Note. As ANSPs plan for providing the TA service throughout the world, ground system capability
and geographical constraints may lead to some variations in local implementations. As experience is
gained, these variations and other refinements will need to be coordinated in future amendments to the
guidelines provided herein.
6.2.2.1 The operator should establish operating and notification procedures for the flight crew
and conduct training to be eligible to participate in tailored arrivals.
6.2.2.2 At each of the ATSUs where the TA service is available, the ANSP should provide
procedures to the controllers and conduct training for constructing and issuing the TA clearance. If the
flight crew from an eligible operator requests a TA clearance and the traffic situation permits, the
controller should accommodate the request. All other standard operating procedures apply.
6.2.3.1 Table 6-3 provides the procedures for delivering and executing a tailored arrival
clearance.
Controller a) If the situation permits, the controller should uplink the TA clearance via
CPDLC using:
(Step 2)
UM 169 [TA designator]
UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance]
UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]
Example: The controller uses the name PACIFIC 1 TA, which is unambiguous for the
specific route and vertical and speed constraints. The route clearance includes lateral
route, crossing restrictions, approach procedure, and runway assignment, and FL370 is
the currently assigned flight level.
PACIFIC 1 TA
AT CINNY CLEARED [Route Clearance]
MAINTAIN FL370.
b) The controller may issue a vertical clearance after delivery of the tailored
arrival clearance, without interfering with the TA clearance. In such cases, the controller
should reissue the TA clearance to ensure no ambiguity.
Who Procedures
Flight crew a) The flight crew should load the TA clearance into the FMS and review it. If
acceptable, the flight crew should activate the route in the FMS and respond to the
(Step 3)
clearance with DM 0 WILCO. If unacceptable, the flight crew should respond to the
clearance with DM 1 UNABLE.
b) The flight crew should select the appropriate descent speed schedule (e.g.
280kts (+/- 10kts)) above 10,000ft.
Note 2. This procedure provides additional descent profile predictability to the
controllers, increasing the potential for the controllers to allow a full TA during
congested periods when increased predictability is required due to other traffic. This
function will eventually be replaced by ground automation which advises the optimum
speed for the descent, based on the entire airspace situation at the expected time of the
arrival.
c) If possible, the flight crew should request FMC waypoint wind and temperature
data from AOC.
AOC AOC should uplink cruise and descent winds to the arriving aircraft to optimize the
FMS-calculated profile for the most predictable execution of that profile.
(Step 4)
Controller When required, the controller should transfer control to the next sector and terminate
CPDLC and ADS-C connections.
(Step 5)
Note 3. The transferring sector either manually or automatically advises the next
sector that the aircraft is on a particular TA.
Flight crew When instructed, the flight crew should establish voice contact with the next sector using
the phraseology [call sign] [TA designator] TAILORED ARRIVAL. [level].
(Step 6)
Who Procedures
Controller a) The controller should advise [call sign] MAINTAIN [level].
(Step 7) Note 4. The controller has access to the uplinked lateral routing and currently
assigned level/altitude on the flight strip through ATC interfacility coordination.
b) If the controller needs to add speed control (e.g. to increase the potential for
issuing a TA clearance), the controller should advise the flight crew as soon as possible
to expect a restriction.
Example:
[call sign] EXPECT TO DESCEND AT 260 KTS
c) When appropriate, the controller should issue a descent clearance along the
cleared route, using [TA designator] TAILORED ARRIVAL. [dest/area]
ALTIMETER/QNH [nnnn] and, as necessary, include a speed or vertical restriction.
Example 1: The controller does not issue a speed or vertical restriction.
[call sign] DESCEND VIA PACIFIC 1 TAILORED ARRIVAL. KSFO ALTIMETER
29.92.
Example 2: The controller issues a speed restriction.
[call sign] DESCEND VIA RADFORD 1 TAILORED ARRIVAL. DO NOT EXCEED
260KTS. NZAA QNH 1014.
Example 3: The controller issues a vertical restriction.
[call sign] DESCEND VIA THE CATALINA 1 TAILORED ARRIVAL BUT AFTER
SLI. MAINTAIN [level/altitude].
Flight crew The flight crew should initiate contact with the next controller using:
(Step 8) [call sign] PASSING FLIGHT LEVEL [FLnnn]/ALTITUDE [nn,nnn feet] ON THE [TA
designator] TAILORED ARRIVAL. [ATIS code].
Note 5. Subsequent exchanges on different frequencies with the same ATSU do not
require the flight crew to state the passing level/altitude.
Who Procedures
Controller If continuation of the TA profile is acceptable to the approach controller, the controller
should clear the aircraft for the approach by stating:
(Step 9)
a) [call sign] AFTER [fix name] CLEARED [approach name]; or
b) [call sign] DESCEND VIA [TA designator] TAILORED ARRIVAL. CROSS
[fixname] AT OR ABOVE [level/altitude]. CLEARED [approach name]; or
c) DESCEND VIA THE [TA designator] TAILORED ARRIVAL. EXPECT
[runway or procedure name].
Example 1: [call sign] AFTER MENLO CLEARED ILS RW28L APPROACH.
Example 2: [call sign] DESCEND VIA THE FLORIDA 8 (or 9) TAILORED
ARRIVAL, CROSS PABOY AT OR ABOVE 3000FT. CLEARED LOCALIZER DME
RUNWAY 8L APPROACH.
Example 3: [call sign] DESCEND VIA THE FLORIDA 9 TAILORED ARRIVAL.
EXPECT RUNWAY 09.
Flight crew If all conditions are acceptable, the flight crew should execute the cleared FMS-directed
profile and apply standard approach and landing procedures.
(Step 10)
Controller a) At any time, the controller may issue alternative level/altitude, routing, or
vectors and discontinue the TA to best suit traffic conditions. When the controller
(Step 11)
discontinues the TA, the controller should provide instructions including an assigned
level/altitude to the flight crew.
Note 6. The controller must include an assigned level/altitude because the flight
crew does not know the minimum vectoring level/altitude nor do they know the
level/altitude of other traffic.
b) The controller may clear the aircraft back onto the TA by stating:
[call sign] CLEARED DIRECT [Waypoint on TA]. RESUME THE [TA designator]
TAILORED ARRIVAL.
6.3.1 General
6.3.1.1 The ADS-B ITP is intended to increase the chances of receiving a clearance to climb or
descend to a specified flight level as requested by the flight crew. The ADS-B ITP permits the flight crew
to request a climb or descent manoeuvre past a maximum of two reference aircraft, in compliance with a
longitudinal separation minimum based on distance as determined by the aircrafts ADS-B system during
the ITP manoeuvre.
6.3.1.2 Prior to requesting an ITP climb or descend manoeuvre, the flight crew uses the ADS-B
system to determine if the ITP criteria are met. The ITP criteria are designed such that two aircraft will
maintain the ITP separation minimum (specified by ICAO Doc 4444) throughout the manoeuvre while
vertical separation is not maintained.
6.3.1.3 This section provides guidelines and procedures for delivering and executing the ADS-B
ITP clearance using CPDLC. These guidelines and procedures are intended for ANSPs that provide the
ADS-B ITP service and participating operators.
6.3.2 Provisions for the ADS-B ITP service and operator eligibility
6.3.2.1 When using CPDLC to support the ADS-B ITP, the ANSP should adhere to the
guidelines for the provision of CPDLC services provided in paragraph 3.1.
6.3.2.2 In addition to an operational authorization to use CPDLC per paragraph 3.2, an operator
intending to use ADS-B ITP service is required to obtain an operational authorization from the State of
registry or State of the operator, in accordance with airspace and State regulatory requirements.
6.3.3.1 When performing an ADS-B ITP supported by CPDLC, the controller should issue
CPDLC clearance messages throughout the ADS-B ITP procedure, as appropriate, in response to the
flight crew request. The flight crew should respond appropriately to the CPDLC clearance messages and
ensure conformance to its clearance. Table 6-4 provides procedural guidance for delivering and
executing an ADS-B ITP clearance using CPDLC.
Who Procedures
Controller If the parameters contained in the ITP request (i.e. number of reference aircraft and
distance) and the aircraft information available to the controller (e.g. surrounding traffic
Step 2
and differential Mach) are within the allowance for the ITP procedure, then to issue a
issues
vertical clearance for the ITP request, the controller should send a CPDLC uplink
clearance
message containing:
a) One of the free text message elements (in the table that follows), depending on
the number and the position of the reference aircraft, to convey traffic information to the
flight crew; and, as a minimum,
b) UM 20 CLIMB TO [level] or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN [altitude], or
UM 23 DESCEND TO [level] or DESCEND TO AND MAINTAIN [altitude],
as appropriate.
Note 1. Depending on the operational context, the free text message element may
be combined with:
a) UM 26 CLIMB TO REACH [level] BY [time] or UM 27 CLIMB TO REACH
[level] BY [position] instead of UM 20; or
b) UM 28 DESCEND TO REACH [level] BY [time] or UM 29 DESCEND TO
REACH [level] BY [position] instead of UM 23.
Note 2. The message may also include other message elements such as UM 129
REPORT MAINTAINING [level] or REPORT LEVEL [altitude].
Who Procedures
Example of ADS-B ITP climb clearance message:
UM 169al ITP BEHIND SIA228 AND AHEAD OF AFR008
UM 20 CLIMB TO FL360 or CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN FL360
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING FL360 or REPORT LEVEL FL360
Example of ADS-B ITP descent clearance message:
UM 169al ITP BEHIND SIA228 AND AHEAD OF AFR008
UM 28 DESCEND TO REACH FL320 BY 1234Z
Controller If for any reason the clearance requested by the flight crew is not available, the controller
should respond to the request by sending UM 0 UNABLE.
Step 2
unable to
The ADS-B ITP is terminated.
issue
clearance
If an intermediate flight level is available, the controller may send UM 169av SEND
NEW ITP REQUEST IF ABLE [level]), where level can be more than one level.
Note. The flight crew will return to Step 1.
Flight crew Upon receipt of the ADS-B ITP clearance, the flight crew should assess the clearance (in
accordance with applicable standards and regulations taking into account the provisions of
Step 3
Chapter 5).
responds to
clearance
If the ADS-B ITP criteria are still met, the flight crew should respond to the ADS-B ITP
clearance with DM 0 WILCO message and perform the vertical manoeuvre accordingly.
If the ADS-B ITP criteria are no longer met, the flight crew should respond to the ADS-B
ITP clearance with DM 1 UNABLE.
7.1 General
7.1.1 The data link and voice communication requirements for CNS/ATM are being defined by
international, regional, and national civil aviation authorities and are based on use of commercial
communication systems. In airspace where procedural separation is being applied, data link has seen
increased use and is normally used as the means of communication. The military has unique requirements
insofar as using CPDLC. These requirements were never considered when the CPDLC message set was
being developed.
7.1.2 Many air and maritime air forces have the capability to conduct air-to-air refueling
(AAR) operations. Although detailed procedures are dependent on aircraft type, mode of employment and
national requirements, there is sufficient commonality for standard procedures to be developed to enhance
operational interoperability. Many of these air and maritime air forces are making the transition to
aeronautical data links and the use of controller pilot data link communications (CPDLC) and automatic
dependent surveillance - contract (ADS-C).
7.1.3 The procedures outlined below describe the communications to be utilized by military
aircraft in the attempt to promote harmonization in CPDLC and ADS-C procedures. These procedures
have been developed utilizing a combination of existing CPDLC message elements and standardized free
text. Standardized free text messages have been created to support these military operations in the
attempt to avoid the general use of free text messages and for overall standardization. To the maximum
extent possible, data link capable aircraft should adhere to procedural guidelines provided in Chapter 5
and Chapter 6.
7.1.4 The aim of this chapter is to provide a reference document covering military procedures
to be used in an aeronautical data link environment. This chapter will provide guidance for the flight
crew and the ANSP to promote harmonized military AAR operations in an aeronautical data link
environment and lead to a better understanding of AAR procedures and terminology.
7.2.1 Prior to commencing AAR or maneuvers with receiver aircraft, the tanker will notify
ATC that the military assumes responsibility for separation of aircraft (MARSA). The tanker will use the
term, MARSA, to notify ATC that the tanker and receiver aircraft are accepting the responsibility for their
actions within the AAR route and the tanker is the lead of the formation. ATC controls all other traffic to
preclude conflicts between civil and military traffic involved in the AAR while at the same time still
controlling the tanker and receiver. The actual refueling commences at the air refueling control point
(ARCP) and continues as the aircraft proceed down the refueling route. Normally, the refueling is
completed prior to the aircraft reaching the air refueling exit point (AREX) point. At AREX, both aircraft
need to receive ATC clearances to continue on their filed routing.
Flight crew To terminate MARSA, each aircraft should first notify the controller of their assigned
(Tanker and level/altitude.
Receiver)
DM 37 MAINTAINING [level] or LEVEL [altitude]
(Step 2)
Controller Then, when the controller receives notification that each aircraft is at its assigned
(to Tanker) level/altitude, the controller sends a free text message to terminate MARSA between
the tanker and the receiver aircraft.
(Step 3)
UM 169aq MARSA TERMINATED WITH [call sign(s) of receiver aircraft]
MARSA is terminated when the tanker receives notification.
7.3.1 Air-to-air refueling is normally accomplished between 10,000 and 28,000 feet depending
on receiver type, requiring both aircraft to descent for refueling.
7.3.2 Refueling routes are numbered and depicted on charts used in airspace where ATS
surveillance services are being provided and a few are depicted on charts used in airspace where
procedural separation is being applied. Refueling may also be conducted on non-designated routes with
an altitude reservation (ALTRV). In all cases, the refueling procedure is part of the filed flight plan. The
flight plan always includes time, requested block level/altitude, air refueling control point (ARCP), air
refueling initial point (ARIP), air refueling exit point (AREX) and intermediate refueling route points. If
the procedure is depicted, its designation (ARxxx) is sufficient to define the route. In a procedurally
controlled environment, a refueling pattern may be part of an existing ALTRV.
7.3.3 During the refueling phase all aircraft operate within the block level/altitude and fly the
route along the refueling route in the flight plan. An ADS contract may be set with any aircraft but it is
only necessary with the lead tanker and needs to correspond with a filed flight plan. Additionally, any
other CPDLC report (i.e. UM 130 REPORT PASSING [position], etc.) may be requested of the tanker in
order to track the progress of the flight. The aircraft may or may not remain in a single formation in the
7.3.4 A typical air-refueling pattern is illustrated in Figure 7-1. The light green route
represents the tankers intended route to the ARCP. The light blue route is the receivers intended route.
Both aircraft file separate flight plans showing the specific aerial refueling locations. The dark blue route
is the tankers orbit and rendezvous flight paths with the dark green route depicting the AAR route. Three
or more points can define the AAR route. The ARIP is the point where the receiver enters the AAR route.
The ARCP is the reference point for the holding pattern where the tanker awaits the receiver. The AAR
route is between the ARCP and the AREX.
Tanker
Tanker
Receiver
Tanker
Who Procedures
Controller a) The controller clears the tanker to delay at the ARCP, as requested.
(to Tanker)
UM 169ar CLEARED TO DELAY FOR AIR REFUEL AT [position] UNTIL [time]
(Step 2)
Note. This message may need to be appended with a free text message in
the event the controller needs to specify a specific area of operations or if the area to
delay is different than the filed flight plan.
c) If the block level/altitude clearance is not available, the controller issues the
following:
UM 0 UNABLE
UM 166 DUE TO TRAFFIC
Optionally, the controller may append the following:
UM 19 MAINTAIN [level], then any one of the following
UM 9 or UM 10 EXPECT DESCENT AT [position/time]; or
UM 7 or UM 8 EXPECT CLIMB AT [position/time].
Optionally, the controller may request a report.
UM 130 REPORT PASSING [position].
Flight crew The tanker responds to the controller instructions in accordance with the guidance
(Tanker) provided in paragraph 2.2.5.4.
(Step 3) DM 0 WILCO;
DM 1 UNABLE;
DM 3 ROGER; or
DM 2 STANDBY.
Who Procedures
Flight crew If ATC has instructed the aircraft to report passing the ARCP, then when the tanker
(Tanker) crosses the ARCP, the flight crew notifies the controller that it has crossed the ARCP
and has entered the air-refueling orbit.
(Step 4)
DM 31 PASSING [position]
Controller If block level/altitude was NOT previously available, when traffic permits, the
(to Tanker) controller issues the block level/altitude clearance for the tanker.
(Step 5) UM 31 CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level]; or
UM 32 DESCEND TO AND MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level]; or
UM 30 MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level].
Optionally, the controller may append the following:
UM 180 REPORT REACHING BLOCK [level] TO [level].
Flight crew The tanker responds to the controller instructions in accordance with the guidance
(Tanker) provided in paragraph 2.2.5.4.
(Step 6) DM 0 WILCO;
DM 1 UNABLE;
DM 3 ROGER; or
DM 2 STANDBY.
Flight crew When the receiver approaches the ARIP, the tanker informs the controller that the
(Tanker) flight crew is accepting MARSA procedures with the receiver.
(Step 7) DM 67z ACCEPT MARSA WITH [call sign(s) of receiver aircraft]
where [call sign(s) of receiver aircraft] exactly matches the filed flight plan(s) for the
receiver aircraft.
Flight crew Prior to entering the ARIP ARCP route, each receiver aircraft requests a
(Receiver(s)) level/altitude change to conduct refueling.
(Step 8) DM 7 REQUEST BLOCK [level] TO [level]
Who Procedures
Controller a) If the controller has received the MARSA message from the tanker, the
(to Receiver(s)) controller clears the receiver(s) to operate in the block level/altitude required for
refueling.
(Step 9)
Note. If the controller did not receive the MARSA message from the tanker,
the controller would UNABLE any requests from the receiver(s) until MARSA could
be confirmed.
UM 31 CLIMB TO AND MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level]; or
UM 32 DESCEND TO AND MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level]; or
UM 30 MAINTAIN BLOCK [level] TO [level]; and
UM 169as CLEARED TO CONDUCT REFUELING.
Optionally, the controller may append the following:
UM 180 REPORT REACHING BLOCK [level] TO [level].
Flight crew The tanker and receiver respond to the controller instructions in accordance with the
(Tanker and guidance provided in paragraph 2.2.5.4.
Receiver)
DM 0 WILCO;
(Step 10)
DM 1 UNABLE;
DM 3 ROGER; or
DM 2 STANDBY.
Flight crew When the tanker is commencing the rendezvous with the receiver, each aircraft sends
(Tanker and the following:
Receiver)
DM 11 AT [position] REQUEST CLIMB TO [level]; or
(Step 11)
DM 12 AT [position] REQUEST DESCENT TO [level];
Where:
[position] is the EXIT point; and
[level] is the requested level for each aircraft after refueling is complete.
Flight crew When approaching the end of refueling, the tanker notifies the controller when to
(Tanker) expect the end of refueling.
(Step 12) DM 67x EXPECT END OF REFUEL AT [time/position].
Who Procedures
Controller The controller issues instructions to assign different flight levels/altitudes to each of
(to Tanker and the aircraft upon completion of refueling.
Receiver)
UM 164 WHEN READY; and
(Step 13)
UM 19 MAINTAIN [level]; and
UM 129 REPORT MAINTAINING [level] or REPORT LEVEL [altitude]
Note. Climb or descent clearances may be issued as appropriate.
Flight crew a) The tanker and receiver respond to the controller instructions in accordance
(Tanker and with the guidance provided in paragraph 2.2.5.4.
Receiver)
DM 0 WILCO;
(Step 14)
DM 1 UNABLE;
DM 3 ROGER; or
DM 2 STANDBY.
b) When the aircraft is maintaining the assigned level, each aircraft notifies the
controller.
DM 37 MAINTAINING [level] or LEVEL [altitude]
Controller When the controller receives notification that each aircraft is at its assigned
(to Tanker) level/altitude, the controller sends a free text message to terminate MARSA between
the tanker and the receiver aircraft.
(Step 15)
UM 169aq MARSA TERMINATED WITH [call sign(s) of receiver aircraft]
7.4.1 Formation flying in a standard formation is usually one in which a proximity of no more
than 1 mile laterally or longitudinally and within 100 feet vertically from the flight leader is maintained
by each aircraft. Non-standard formations are those operating under conditions other than standard
formation dimensions that the flight leader has requested and air traffic control (ATC) has approved, or
when operating within an authorized ALTRV.
7.4.2 For each flight plan, the lead aircraft will initiate a logon at the correct time (refer to
paragraph 5.2.2). Once in formation, only the lead aircraft will make position reports in accordance
paragraph 5.6. Use CPDLC standard messages for level/altitude requests, routing requests (if different
from what was filed), and speed or ETA requests with ATC to effect any en-route changes.
7.4.3 In the event a formation wants to break-up the formation or depart an ALTRV the aircraft
desiring to break off of the formation will coordinate their departure a minimum of ten (10) minutes prior
Table 7-3. Single aircraft or formation joining an ALTRV data link procedures
Who Procedures
Flight crew When a single aircraft or formation is joining an ALTRV, the flight crew notifies the
controller of its intention to join the formation.
DM 67y JOINING ALTRV [ALTRV designator] AT [time/position]
Example:
JOINING ALTRV CW413 AT HEMLO or JOINING ALTRV CW413 AT 1530Z
Table 7-4. Formation break-up or departure from ALTRV data link procedures
Who Procedures
Controller ATC responds to the request.
UM 74 PROCEED DIRECT TO [position]; or
UM 76 AT [time] PROCEED DIRECT TO [position];or
UM 77 AT [position] PROCEED DIRECT TO [position]; or
UM 79 CLEARED TO [position] VIA [route clearance]; or
UM 80 CLEARED [route clearance]; or
UM 83 AT [position] CLEARED [route clearance]
Flight crew The flight crew responds to the controller instructions in accordance with the
guidance provided in paragraph 2.2.5.4.
DM 0 WILCO;
DM 1 UNABLE;
DM 3 ROGER; or
DM 2 STANDBY.
Flight crew or The flight crew may further request desired level/altitude and the controller would
Controller respond with the appropriate instructions.
7.5.1 If suitably equipped, State aircraft should ensure ADS-C is armed because ADS contracts
may be established by ATC. ATC will establish ADS contracts with the lead aircraft as identified in the
filed flight plan.
A.1 General
A.1.1 This appendix contains the CPDLC message elements and standardized and preformatted
free text messages for the FANS 1/A, ATN B1, and ATN B1-FANS 1/A data link systems described in
paragraph 2.1.2. The CPDLC message elements are based on ICAO Doc 4444, 15th Edition.
Section A.2 provides a CPDLC message element response requirements key;
Section A.3 provides the CPDLC uplink message elements and intended uses;
Section A.4 provides the CPDLC downlink message elements; and
Section A.5 provides CPDLC standardized free text messages.
A.1.2 The following guidelines apply:
a) Normal text is taken from ICAO Doc 4444 (e.g. message response key or message intent/use)
and represents the global baseline. Italic text supplements the ICAO Doc 4444 guideline either as a Note
or specific to FANS 1/A, ATN B1, or ATN B1-FANS 1/A data link system.
b) In cases where there is a choice for the message element or the response attribute, the first
choice that appears in the row for that message element is shown in bold text and indicates the preferred
choice, per ICAO Doc 4444, and should be used for new implementations. The second choice is shown
in italic text and indicates legacy implementations (e.g. FANS 1/A), that are considered acceptable.
c) The following variables are considered operationally interchangeable in this document
respecting range and resolution variations as defined in interoperability standards:
Note. ICAO Doc 4444 notes that message elements that contain the [level] variable can be
specified as either a single level or a vertical range (i.e. block level). FANS 1/A only considers the
[level] variable as a single level and uses message elements that are intended exclusively for specifying a
vertical range (e.g. UM 30, UM 31, UM 32, UM 180, DM 7, DM 76, DM 77, etc). ATN B1 uses the
[level] variable to specify a vertical range and does not use the message elements intended exclusively for
specifying a vertical range, except in cases where an ATN B1 ground system provides data link service to
FANS 1/A aircraft.
d) The CPDLC message set column indicates which of the CPDLC message sets, FANS 1/A,
ATN B1 or FANS 1/A-ATN B1, supports the message element. The cell is shaded green if they are valid
messages in the ICAO Doc 4444 message set and red if they are reserved.
Note. The FOREWORD suggests that this guidance material may contain material that may
eventually become Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), or PANS provisions. In particular,
ICAO should strongly consider appropriate changes where experience has shown that valid message
elements should be avoided, as indicated in this appendix.
Response Description
column
For uplink message
W/U Response required. Yes
Valid responses. WILCO, UNABLE, STANDBY, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY,
NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT DATA AUTHORITY, LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
(only if required), ERROR
Note. WILCO, UNABLE, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY, NOT AUTHORIZED
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY and ERROR will close the uplink message.
FANS 1/A. WILCO, UNABLE, STANDBY, ERROR, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY.
A/N Response required. Yes
Valid responses. AFFIRM, NEGATIVE, STANDBY, NOT CURRENT DATA
AUTHORITY, NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT DATA AUTHORITY, LOGICAL
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (only if required), ERROR
Note. AFFIRM, NEGATIVE, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY, NOT AUTHORIZED
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY and ERROR will close the uplink message.
FANS 1/A. AFFIRM, NEGATIVE, STANDBY, ERROR, NOT CURRENT DATA
AUTHORITY.
R Response required. Yes
Valid responses. ROGER, UNABLE, STANDBY, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY,
NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT DATA AUTHORITY, LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
(only if required), ERROR
Note. ROGER, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY, NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT DATA
AUTHORITY and ERROR will close the uplink message.
FANS 1/A. ROGER, STANDBY, ERROR, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY.
FANS 1/A aircraft do not have the capability to send UNABLE in response to an uplink
message containing message elements with an R response attribute. For these aircraft,
the flight crew may use alternative means to UNABLE the message. These alternative
means will need to be taken into consideration to ensure proper technical and operational
closure of the communication transaction.
Y Response required. Yes
Valid responses: Any CPDLC downlink message, LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
(only if required)
N Response required. No, unless logical acknowledgement required.
Valid Responses (only if LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT is required). LOGICAL
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY, NOT AUTHORIZED
NEXT DATA AUTHORITY, ERROR
FANS 1/A. Defined Response not required, but not used. Under some circumstances,
an ERROR message will also close an uplink message.
Response Description
column
NE [Not defined in ICAO Doc 4444]
FANS 1/A. The WILCO, UNABLE, AFFIRM, NEGATIVE, ROGER, and STANDBY
responses are not enabled (NE) for flight crew selection. An uplink message with a response
attribute NE is considered to be closed even though a response may be required
operationally. Under some circumstances, a downlink error message may be linked to an
uplink message with a NE attribute.
For downlink messages
Y Response required. Yes
Valid responses. Any CPDLC uplink message, LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (only
if required).
N Response required. No, unless logical acknowledgement required.
Valid responses (only if LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT is required). LOGICAL
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, SERVICE UNAVAILABLE, FLIGHT PLAN NOT HELD,
ERROR
FANS 1/A. Aircraft do not have the capability to receive technical responses to downlink
message elements with an N response attribute (other than LACK or ERROR for ATN B1
aircraft). In some cases, the response attribute is different between FANS 1/A aircraft and
ICAO Doc 4444. As an example, most emergency messages have an N response attribute
for FANS 1/A whereas ICAO Doc 4444 defines a Y response attribute for them. As a
consequence, for FANS 1/A aircraft, the ATC will need to use alternative means to
acknowledge to the flight crew that an emergency message has been received.
DM 83
DM 84
UM Instruction to report the earliest time or WHEN CAN YOU Y FANS 1/A
152 position when the specified offset track ACCEPT [specified or
can be accepted. distance] [direction] NE
OFFSET
DM 85
DM 86
Air Traffic Advisories (uplink)
UM ATS advisory that the altimeter setting ALTIMETER [altimeter] R FANS 1/A
153 should be the specified setting.
UM ATS advisory that the specified altimeter [facility designation] R FANS 1/A
213 setting relates to the specified facility. ALTIMETER [altimeter] [free text]
FANS 1/A and FANS 1/A-ATN B1. Uses ATN B1
UM 169y free text for FANS 1/A aircraft. FANS 1/A-
ATN B1
UM ATS advisory that the radar service is RADAR SERVICE R FANS 1/A
154 terminated. TERMINATED or
RADAR SERVICES
TERMINATED
UM Notification that the ground system does MESSAGE NOT N FANS 1/A
162 not support this message. SUPPORTED BY THIS or [free text]
FANS 1/A and FANS 1/A ATN B1. Uses ATS UNIT or SERVICE NE ATN B1
UM 169u free text for FANS 1/A aircraft. UNAVAILABLE FANS 1/A-
ATN B1
UM Notification that the ground system does FLIGHT PLAN NOT N N/A
234 not have a flight plan for that aircraft. HELD
UM Notification to the pilot of an ATSU [facility designation] or N FANS 1/A
163 identifier. [icao facility designation] or
[tP4+Table] NE
UM Confirmation to the aircraft system that LOGICAL N ATN B1
227 the ground system has received the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FANS 1/A-
message to which the logical ATN B1
acknowledgement refers and found it
acceptable for display to the responsible
person.
FANS 1/A-ATN B1. ATN B1 only. Not
available for FANS 1/A.
UM Notification to the pilot that messages sent USE OF LOGICAL N N/A
233 requiring a logical acknowledgement will ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
not be accepted by this ground system. PROHIBITED
B.1 General
B.1.1 This appendix includes specifications for RCP 240 and RCP 400. These specifications
support:
a) Safety oversight of air traffic service provisions and operations;
b) Agreements/contractual arrangements that ANSPs and aircraft operators make with their
respective CSPs;
c) Operational authorizations, flight crew training and qualification;
d) Design approval of aircraft data link systems; and
e) Operational-monitoring, analysis, and exchange of operational data among regions and states.
B.1.2 The RCP specifications are derived mainly from a safety assessment. However, in cases
where it has been determined to be beneficial, the RCP specification may include criteria to support
operational efficiency and orderly flow of air traffic. In these cases, the RCP specification indicates the
distinction between safety and efficiency.
B.1.3 The RCP specifications provide a means of compliance, in general. Additional guidance
related to service provision, aircraft approval and operational authorizations can be found in Chapter 3.
Guidance and requirements on post-implementation monitoring can be found at Appendix D.
B.1.4 The RCP specifications include allocations for data communications. The /D designator
is used to indicate the RCP allocations associated with the CPDLC application.
RCP specification
Term Description
Operational communication The process a human uses to initiate the transmission of an instruction,
transaction clearance, flight information, and/or request, and is completed when that
human is confident that the transaction is complete.
RCP specification A set of ATS provision, including communication services, operator and
flight crew requirements (e.g. RCP 240) needed for communications
supporting a performance-based operation within a defined airspace.
RCP specification
Term Description
RCP type A label (e.g. RCP 240) that represents the values assigned to RCP
parameters for communication transaction time, continuity, availability
and integrity. (ICAO)
Note. This document uses the term RCP specification to align RCP
with RNP and RNAV specifications provided in the Performance Based
Navigation Manual.
RCP expiration time (ET) The maximum time for the completion of the operational communication
transaction after which the initiator is required to revert to an alternative
procedure.
RCP nominal time The maximum nominal time within which 95% of operational
(TT 95%) communication transactions is required to be completed.
RCP continuity (C) The required probability that an operational communication transaction
can be completed within the communication transaction time, either ET
or TT 95%, given that the service was available at the start of the
transaction.
RCP availability (A) The required probability that an operational communication transaction
can be initiated when needed.
RCP integrity (I) The required probability that an operational communication transaction
is completed with no undetected errors.
Note. Whilst RCP integrity is defined in terms of the goodness of
the communication capability, it is specified in terms of the likelihood of
-5
occurrence of malfunction on a per flight hour basis (e.g. 10 ),
consistent with RNAV/RNP specifications.
RCP Continuity
Term Description
C for TRN The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be
delivered within the specified TRN for intervention.
C for RCTP The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be
delivered within the specified RCTP for intervention.
C for RCTP ATSU The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be
delivered within the specified RCTP ATSU for Intervention.
C for RCTP CSP The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be
delivered within the specified RCTP CSP for Intervention.
C for RCTP AIR The proportion of intervention messages and responses that can be
delivered within the specified RCTP AIR for Intervention.
Responder RCP
TRN type
2 Acknowledgement of
clearance
Human is
confident that
transaction is
complete
3 Information Report
RCP Availability
Term Description
Service availability The required probability that the communication service is available to all
(A CSP ) users in a specific airspace when desired.
Unplanned outage Time after the unplanned outage begins at which there is an operational
duration limit (minutes) impact. Measured from when an unplanned outage begins to when the
ATSU receives notification that the service has been restored.
Maximum number of Measured separately for each relevant operational airspace over any 12-
unplanned outages month period.
Maximum accumulated Measured by accumulating only the duration times for unplanned outages
unplanned outage time greater than the unplanned outage duration limit during any 12-month
(min/yr) period. The accumulation is performed separately for each relevant
operational airspace.
Unplanned outage Notification to the ATSU of an unplanned outage. Measured from when the
notification delay (min) unplanned outage begins to when the ATSU receives notification.
RCP Availability
Term Description
Aircraft system The required probability of available capability on an aircraft with an
availability (A AIR ) average flight of 6 hours.
Note. The actual aircraft system availability is computed assuming that
the service is available in the relevant airspace.
Notification of Notification of
restored restored
service service
unplanned unplanned
outage outage Maximum
duration duration number of
unplanned
Notification of Notification of outages > ODL
unplanned unplanned (per year)
outage delay outage delay
RCP Specification
RCP specification RCP 240
Airspace specific considerations
Interoperability Specify interoperability criteria (e.g. FANS 1/A)
ATS Function Specify ATS function(s) (e.g. applicable separation standard)
Application Specify controller-pilot ATC communication intervention capability (e.g. CPDLC
application per ICAO Doc 4444, and RTCA DO-306/EUROCAE ED-122,
Annex A)
RCP parameter values
Transaction time (sec) Continuity (C) Availability (A) Integrity (I)
-5
ET = 240 C(ET) = 0.999 0.999 Malfunction = 10 per
TT 95% = 210 C(TT 95%) = 0.95 0.9999 (efficiency) flight hour
RCP monitoring and alerting criteria
Ref Criteria
MA-1 The system shall be capable of detecting failures and configuration changes that would
cause the communication service to no longer meet the RCP specification for the intended
function.
MA-2 When the communication service can no longer meet the RCP specification for the
intended function, the flight crew and/or the controller shall take appropriate action.
Notes
Note 1. Rationale for the criteria provided in this specification can be found in ICAO Annex 11, ICAO
Doc 4444, ICAO Doc 9689, and RTCA DO-306/ED-122.
Note 2. The values for transaction times are to be applied to transactions that are representative of
communication capability for the controller to intervene with a specific operator, aircraft type, and
aircraft identification.
Note 3. If changes are made to the system capacity limits, as specified by the airspace requirements,
and the changes cause the system to perform below the RCP specification, this would be considered a
change in system configuration.
Note 4. DO-306/ED-122 specifies an availability value based on safety assessment of the operational
effects of the loss of the service. The availability value herein is more stringent, based on an additional
need to maintain orderly and efficient operations.
B.3.1.1 General
B.3.1.1.1 The RCP 240/D allocations are applicable to the CPDLC application.
RCP Specification
RCP specification RCP 400
Airspace specific considerations
Interoperability Specify interoperability criteria (e.g. FANS 1/A)
ATS Function Specify ATS function(s) (e.g. applicable separation standard)
Application Specify controller-pilot ATC communication intervention capability (e.g. CPDLC
application per ICAO Doc 4444, and RTCA DO-306/EUROCAE ED-122,
Annex A)
RCP parameter values
Transaction time (sec) Continuity (C) Availability (A) Integrity (I)
-5
ET = 400 C(ET) = 0.999 0.999 Malfunction = 10 per
TT 95% = 350 C(TT 95%) = 0.95 flight hour
RCP monitoring and alerting criteria
Ref: Criteria
MA-1 The system shall be capable of detecting failures and configuration changes that would
cause the communication service to no longer meet the RCP specification for the intended
function.
MA-2 When the communication service can no longer meet the RCP specification for the
intended function, the flight crew and/or the controller shall take appropriate action.
Notes
Note 1. Rationale for the criteria provided in this specification can be found in ICAO Annex 11,
ICAO Doc 4444, ICAO Doc 9689, and RTCA DO-306/ED-122.
Note 2. The values for transaction times are to be applied to transactions that are representative of
communication capability for the controller to intervene with a specific operator, aircraft type, and
aircraft identification.
Note 3. If changes are made to the system capacity limits, as specified by the airspace requirements,
and the changes cause the system to perform below the RCP specification, this would be considered a
change in system configuration.
B.4.1.1 General
B.4.1.1.1 The RCP 400/D allocations are applicable to the CPDLC application.
RCP Specification
RCP specification RCP 150
Airspace specific considerations
Interoperability Specify interoperability criteria (e.g. ATN B1, ATN B1-FANS 1/A)
ATS Function Specify ATS function(s) (e.g. ATS communication means (Controller-initiated
ACM and ACL)
Application Specify controller-pilot ATC communication intervention capability (e.g. CPDLC
application per ICAO Doc 4444, and RTCA DO-290/EUROCAE ED-120,
Annex A)
RCP parameter values
Transaction time (sec) Continuity (C) Availability (A) Integrity (I)
-5
ET = 150 C(ET) = 0.999 0.999 (Provision Malfunction = 10 per
TT 95% = 80 C(TT 95%) = 0.95 0.993 (Use) flight hour
RCP monitoring and alerting criteria
Ref: Criteria
MA-1 The system shall be capable of detecting failures and configuration changes that would
cause the communication service to no longer meet the RCP specification for the intended
function.
MA-2 When the communication service can no longer meet the RCP specification for the
intended function, the flight crew and/or the controller shall take appropriate action.
Notes
Note 1. Rationale for the criteria provided in this specification can be found in ICAO Annex 11, ICAO
Doc 4444, ICAO Doc 9689, and DO-290/ED-120.
Note 2. The values for transaction times are to be applied to transactions that are representative of
communication capability for the controller to intervene with a specific operator, aircraft type, and
aircraft identification.
Note 3. If changes are made to the system capacity limits, as specified by the airspace requirements,
and the changes cause the system to perform below the RCP specification, this would be considered a
change in system configuration.
Note 4. DO-290/ED-120 specifies an availability value based on service Provision (A PROV ) and on
Use (A USE ). A PROV value herein is more stringent and is equally shared between ATSU and CSP.
B.5.1.1 General
B.5.1.1.1 The RCP 150/D allocations are applicable to the CPDLC application.
Second Edition 26 April 2013 GOLD
Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD) B-25
SR-ACL-9 I The ATSP shall reject messages not addressed to its end system.
SR-AMC-5
SR-ACL-10 I The ATSP shall transmit messages to the designated end system.
SR-AMC-6
SR-ACL-12 C The ATSU system shall be capable of indicating to the controller when a
required response is not received within the required time (ET TRN ).
SR-ACL-13 C When a received message contains a time stamp that indicates that the
ET TRN time has been exceeded, the ATSU shall either discard the
message and inform the initiator or display the message to the receiver
with an appropriate indication.
SR-ACL-16 I The ATSU shall prevent release of a clearance without controller action.
SR-ACL-9 I The aircraft system shall reject messages not addressed to its end
system.
SR-AMC-5
SR-ACL-10 I The aircraft system shall transmit messages to the designated end
system.
SR-ACL-11 C An indication shall be provided to the flight crew and information shall
be sent to the ATSU when a message is rejected because the response is
not sent within the required time (ET RESPONDER ).
SR-ACL-13 C When a received message contains a time stamp that indicates that the
ET TRN time has been exceeded, the aircraft system shall either discard
the message and inform the ATSU or display the message to the flight
crew with an appropriate indication.
SR-ACL-15 C When using data link for ATC communications, the aircraft system shall
be synchronized to within one second of UTC.
SR-AMC-8
SR-ACL-17 C The aircraft system shall prevent release of a report without flight crew
action.
SR-ACL-18 I The aircraft system shall be capable of detecting a corrupted message.
C.1 General
C.1.1 This appendix includes specifications for RSP 180 and RSP 400. These specifications
support:
a) Safety oversight of air traffic service provisions and operations;
b) Agreements/contractual arrangements that ANSPs and aircraft operators make with their
respective CSPs;
c) Operational authorizations, flight crew training and qualification;
d) Design approval of aircraft data link systems; and
e) Operational-monitoring, analysis, and exchange of operational data among regions and states.
C.1.2 The RSP specifications are derived mainly from a safety assessment. However, in cases
where it has been determined to be beneficial, the RSP specification may include criteria to support
operational efficiency and orderly flow of air traffic. In these cases, the RSP specification indicates the
distinction between safety and efficiency.
C.1.3 The RSP specifications provide a means of compliance, in general. Additional guidance
related to service provision, aircraft approval and operational authorizations can be found in Chapter 3.
Guidance and requirements on post-implementation monitoring can be found at Appendix D.
C.1.4 The RSP specifications include allocations for data communications. The /D designator
is used to indicate the RSP allocations associated with the ADS-C or FMC WPR application.
RSP specification
Term Description
ATS surveillance service A term used to indicate a service provided directly by means of an ATS
surveillance system. (ICAO)
ADS-C service A term used to indicate an ATS service that provides surveillance
information by means of the ADS-C application.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444 does not include ADS-C in its definition for ATS
surveillance system. Therefore, an ATS surveillance service does not
consider those provided by means of the ADS-C application, unless it
can be shown by comparative assessment to have a level of safety and
performance equal to or better than monopulse SSR.
RSP specification
Term Description
FMC WPR service A term used to indicate an ATS service that provides surveillance
information by means of the FMC WPR application.
Note. ICAO Doc 4444 does not include FMC WPR in its definition for
ATS surveillance system. Therefore, an ATS surveillance service does
not consider those provided by means of the FMC WPR application,
unless it can be shown by comparative assessment to have a level of
safety and performance equal to or better than monopulse SSR.
ATS surveillance system A generic term meaning variously, ADS-B, PSR, SSR or any comparable
ground-based system that enables the identification of aircraft.
Note. A comparable ground-based system is one that has been
demonstrated, by comparative assessment or other methodology, to have
a level of safety and performance equal to or better than monopulse SSR.
(ICAO)
Automatic dependent A means by which aircraft, aerodrome vehicles and other objects can
surveillance broadcast automatically transmit and/or receive data such as identification, position
(ADS-B) and additional data, as appropriate, in a broadcast mode via a data link.
(ICAO)
Automatic dependent A means by which the terms of an ADS-C agreement will be exchanged
surveillance contract between the ground system and the aircraft, via a data link, specifying
(ADS-C) under what conditions ADS-C reports would be initiated, and what data
would be contained in the reports.
Note. The abbreviated term ADS contract is commonly used to refer
to ADS event contract, ADS demand contract, ADS periodic contract or
an emergency mode.
(ICAO)
Surveillance data Data pertaining to the identification of aircraft and/or obstructions for
route conformance monitoring and safe and efficient conduct of flight.
Note. In this document, surveillance data applies to ADS-C reports,
CPDLC position reports and FMC waypoint position reports.
Required surveillance A statement of the performance requirements for operational surveillance
performance (RSP) in support of specific ATM functions.
RSP specification A set of ATS provision, including communication services, aircraft and
operator requirements (e.g. RSP 180) needed for surveillance supporting
a performance-based operation within a defined airspace.
RSP specification
Term Description
Surveillance data delivery The process for obtaining surveillance data.
Note. In this document, the delivery is defined for the following
reports:
a) ADS-C periodic report, from the start of the periodic interval to when
the ATSU receives the report. The start of the periodic interval occurs
when the periodic report is sent by the aircraft/flight crew;
b) ADS-C event reports and FMC waypoint position reports, from the
time the aircraft system detects that the event has occurred to when the
ATSU receives the report; and
c) CPDLC position report, from the time at which the aircraft reported
its position and when the ATSU receives the report.
RSP data transit time The required time for surveillance data delivery.
RSP overdue delivery time The maximum time for the successful delivery of surveillance data after
(OT) which the initiator is required to revert to an alternative procedure.
RSP nominal delivery time The maximum nominal time within which 95% of surveillance data is
(DT 95%) required to be successfully delivered.
RSP continuity (C) The required probability that surveillance data can be delivered within
the surveillance delivery time parameter, either OT or DT 95%, given
that the service was available at the start of delivery.
RSP availability (A) The required probability that surveillance data can be provided when
needed.
RSP integrity (I) The required probability that the surveillance data is delivered with no
undetected error.
Note. Surveillance integrity includes such factors as the accuracy of
time, correlating the time at aircraft position, reporting interval, data
latency, extrapolation and/or estimation of the data.
RSP continuity
Term Description
C for RSTP ATSU The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the
specified RSTP ATSU .
C for RSTP AIR The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the
specified RSTP AIR .
C for RSTP CSP The proportion of surveillance messages that can be delivered within the
specified RSTP CSP .
RSTPAIR
RSTPATSU
Surveillance
data
Note. The terms and acronyms used to specify the criteria for surveillance availability are the
same as the terms and acronyms used to specify the criteria for RCP availability. See Appendix B,
paragraph B.2.
RSP specification
RSP specification RSP 180
Airspace specific considerations
Interoperability Specify interoperability criteria (e.g. FANS 1/A)
ATS Function Specify ATS function(s) (e.g. applicable separation standard)
Application Specify the required surveillance capability. FMC WPR or, for ADS-C, specify
the types of contracts required to support the ATS function (e.g. periodic contract
at [nn] min, waypoint change event contract, lateral deviation event contract at [n]
NM).
RSP parameter values
Transit time (sec) Continuity (C) Availability (A) Integrity (I)
OT = 180 C(OT) = 0.999 0.999 Navigation FOM See Note 4.
DT 95% = 90 C(DT 95%) = 0.95 0.9999 (efficiency) Time at position +/- 1 sec
See Note 3. accuracy (UTC)
Data integrity Malfunction
-5
= 10 per
flight hour
RSP monitoring and alerting criteria
Ref Criteria
MA-1 The system shall be capable of detecting failures and configuration changes that would
cause the ADS-C or FMC WPR service to no longer meet the surveillance parameter
values for the intended function.
MA-2 When the ADS-C or FMC WPR service can no longer meet the surveillance parameter
values for the intended function, the flight crew and/or the controller shall take
appropriate action.
Notes
Note 1. Rationale for the criteria provided in this specification can be found in ICAO Annex 11, ICAO
Doc 4444, ICAO Doc 9689, and RTCA DO-306/ED-122.
Note 2. If changes are made to the system capacity limits, as specified by the airspace requirements,
and the changes cause the system to perform below the surveillance parameter values, this would be
considered a change in system configuration.
Note 3. DO-306/ED-122 specifies an availability value based on safety assessment of the operational
effects of the loss of the service. The availability value herein is more stringent, based on an additional
need to maintain orderly and efficient operations.
Note 4. The navigation figure of merit (FOM) is specified based on the navigation criteria associated
with this spec. For example, if RNP 4 is prescribed, then for ADS-C surveillance service, the FOM level
would need to be 4 or higher. In all cases, when the navigation capability no longer meets the criteria
specified for the operation, the flight crew is responsible for reporting the non-compliance to ATC in
accordance with ICAO procedures.
C.3.1.1 General
C.3.1.1.1 The RSP 180/D allocations can be applied to the ADS-C or FMC WPR applications.
RSP specification
RSP specification RSP 400
Airspace specific considerations
Interoperability Specify interoperability criteria (e.g. FANS 1/A)
ATS Function Specify ATS function(s) (e.g. applicable separation standard)
Application Specify the required surveillance capability. FMC WPR or, for ADS-C, specify
the types of contracts required to support the ATS function (e.g. periodic contract
at [nn] min, waypoint change event contract, lateral deviation event contract at [n]
NM).
Surveillance parameter values
Transit time (sec) Continuity (C) Availability (A) Integrity (I)
OT = 400 C(OT) = 0.999 0.999 Navigation FOM See Note 3.
DT 95% = 300 C(DT 95%) = 0.95 Time at position +/- 1 sec
accuracy (UTC)
Data integrity Malfunction
-5
= 10 per
flight hour
Surveillance monitoring and alerting criteria
Ref Criteria
MA-1 The system shall be capable of detecting failures and configuration changes that would
cause the ADS-C or FMC WPR service to no longer meet the surveillance parameter
values for the intended function.
MA-2 When the ADS-C or FMC WPR service can no longer meet the surveillance parameter
values for the intended function, the flight crew and/or the controller shall take
appropriate action.
Notes
Note 1. Rationale for the criteria provided in this specification can be found in ICAO Annex 11, ICAO
Doc 4444, ICAO Doc 9689, and RTCA DO-306/ED-122.
Note 2. If changes are made to the system capacity limits, as specified by the airspace requirements,
and the changes cause the system to perform below the surveillance parameter values, this would be
considered a change in system configuration.
Note 3. The navigation figure of merit (FOM) is specified based on the navigation criteria associated
with this spec. For example, if RNP 10 is prescribed, then for ADS-C surveillance service, the FOM
level would need to be 3 or higher. In all cases, when the navigation capability no longer meets the
criteria specified for the operation, the flight crew is responsible for reporting the non-compliance to
ATC in accordance with ICAO procedures.
C.4.1.1 General
C.4.1.1.1 The RSP 400/D allocations can be applied to the ADS-C or FMC WPR applications.
Note. The RSP integrity criteria, monitoring and alerting criteria, and related safety requirements
for RSP 400/D are the same as the criteria provided for RSP 180/D. See paragraph C.3.1.2.
Note. The RSP availability, integrity and monitoring and alerting criteria, and related safety
requirements for RSP 400/D are the same as the criteria and related safety requirements provided for
RSP 180/D. See paragraph C.3.1.4.
Note. The RSP availability, integrity and monitoring and alerting criteria, and related safety
requirements for RSP 400/D are the same as the criteria and related safety requirements provided for
RSP 180/D. See paragraph C.3.1.5.
D.1 General
D.1.1 The ICAO Global Plan calls for the implementation of a performance based system and
ICAO Annex 11 requires that data link system performance is monitored to verify that an acceptable level
of safety continues to be met. Annex 11 at paragraph 2.2.7.5 states:
Any significant safety-related change to the ATC system, including the implementation of a
reduced separation minimum or a new procedure, shall only be effected after a safety
assessment has demonstrated that an acceptable level of safety will be met and users have been
consulted. When appropriate, the responsible authority shall ensure that adequate provision is
made for post-implementation monitoring to verify that the defined level of safety continues to be
met.
D.1.2 For continental European airspace, EC Regulation 29/2009 (the DLS IR) stipulates:
The quality of service of air-ground data link communications should be regularly monitored by
ATS Providers.
D.1.3 It also states:
ATS providers shall monitor the quality of service of communication services and verify their
conformance with the level of performance required.
D.1.4 The CPDLC system, data link system (ATN or FANS 1/A) and A/G radio links
(SATCOM, VDL M2, etc) must operate successfully as a whole to ensure smooth CPDLC operations and
to verify that an acceptable level of safety continues to be met. As such a central function performing the
overall monitoring of normal data link operations, service disruptions and restorations not only at the
level of communication service provision but also at CPDLC, data link system and A/G radio link level,
will be needed to:
guarantee performance and inter-operability;
investigate problems;
share lessons learned.
D.1.5 Without such a central function this may prove difficult to achieve. This function will
need to continue once the data link service is in place to guarantee capacity, performance and inter-
operability in the years following successful implementation.
D.1.6 Oversight of the compliance to the Annex 11 requirements is a matter for the States.
However, States participate in planning and implementation regional groups (PIRGs), and most use a
regional monitoring agency to facilitate monitoring activities within their respective region. The
individual states/ANSPs will need to provide the data and information and analysis that will portray
regional performance measures. The ANSPs, operators, CSPs, airframe manufacturers, and equipment
suppliers all need to participate in reporting and resolving problems associated among the ANSPs and
with aircraft.
D.1.7 While individual ANSP will develop the data collection mechanisms, monitoring tools,
and internal reporting requirements best suiting their own environment, all ANSP should collect and
maintain a database of performance data using the data formats specified in this appendix. These
databases will provide the means to aggregate ADS-C surveillance transit time and CPDLC RCP
transaction time on a regional and global basis.
D.2.1 General
D.2.1.1 Data link performance requirements for the application of reduced separation standards,
as defined in ICAO Doc 4444, are contained in the following documents:
a) RTCA DO-306/EUROCAE ED-122 Oceanic SPR standard. These requirements are specified
in terms of RCP and RSP.
b) RTCA DO-290/EUROCAE ED-120 Continental SPR standard. The EUR instantiation of
DO290/ED120 comprises the performance requirements for DLIC (Logon and Contact) and CPDLC
(ACM, ACL).
Note. The intention is to specify an RCP type for ACM and ACL-Controller initiated messages for
the EUR region. An update of DO-290/ED-120 is expected.
D.2.1.2 ANSP that are currently monitoring data link performance have found that a monthly
monitoring interval usually provides enough data points to detect any performance variation and is
adequate for post implementation monitoring.
D.2.2.1 General
D.2.2.1.1 This section provides guidance on data collection and performance measurement for the
CPDLC application.
D.2.2.1.2 For procedural airspace, the measurements are taken from CPDLC ground-initiated
transactions.
D.2.2.1.3 For EUR continental airspace, the following measurements are taken:
a) DLIC-contact transactions;
b) CPDLC ground-initiated and air-initiated transactions.
Note. Air-initiated and ground initiated transactions will be analysed separately since they have
different performance requirements (refer to Appendix B).
ACP
Up Down
1 2 3 4
1. Uplink Sent. This is the date/time that the CPDLC clearance was sent to the aircraft.
2. MAS Received. This is the date/time that the MAS for the CPDLC clearance was received.
3. WILCO Sent. This is the date/time that the WILCO reply is transmitted.
4. WILCO Received. This is the date/time that the WILCO reply for the CPDLC clearance was received.
The measurements (in seconds) are calculated as follows:
Uplink
CPDLC
ACTP
Downlink
D.2.2.2.2.7 The values for ACTP and PORT are only approximations. Uplink transit times are
estimated by taking half the time for the MAS/LACK response round trip. This assumption is flawed in a
small percentage of cases because we know it is possible for the MAS to be received at the ANSP after
the operational response is received; or for the timestamp on the operational response to be earlier than
the MAS receipt time. This will happen if the CSP does not hear the network ACK from the aircraft
(which is sent on uplink receipt) and resends the uplink later. The CSP receives the network ACK to this
second uplink and sends the MAS to the ANSP. In the meantime, the aircraft has already responded with
the operational response. ANSP will see this issue reflected in their data with crew response times with
negative or extremely small values. All transactions with zero or negative crew response times should be
filtered from data prior to analysis. The time sequence diagram below in Figure D- 2 illustrates the issue.
Errors can also arise if there are delays between the ANSP and the CSP on the uplink path. These delays
will result in excessive calculated PORT and skewed ACP.
Figure D- 3 Issue with estimating uplink transit time as half MAS roundtrip
Clearance
request
Controller
CPDLC Unable, operational
Transaction Clearance response
Delay response
Or Expect
clearance
LACK
Contact
request
Logon
request
DLIC
Contact
Transaction Logon
Delay response
Contact
response
D.2.2.3.2 ANSP may find that the following additional data may be useful for performance
analysis:
a) The aircraft call sign extracted from either the Flight Plan (e.g. ANZ123) or the logon request
message for the flight (e.g. NZ123) or the FI line in the ACARS header (e.g. NZ0123);
b) Direction of flight calculated by the flight data processor and displayed as a three figure group
representing degrees true (e.g. 275); and
c) The estimated position in latitude and longitude of the aircraft when a CPDLC downlink is sent.
Calculated by the flight data processor. For consistency the following formats are recommended: For
D.2.2.3.3 For ATN B1 and FANS 1/A service provision in EUR Region, the following additional
data should be provided:
a) DLIC Initiation Logon Counts. The number of unsuccessful logon attempts, the number of
successful logon attempts followed by the establishment of a CPDLC connection, and the number of
successful logon attempts that are not followed by the establishment of a CPDLC connection.
b) Continuity for DLIC-Contact and CPDLC ground-initiated and air-initiated transactions. As
the performance requirements are different for ground-initiated transactions and air-initiated transactions,
the actual probability for Continuity is calculated separately for ground-initiated and air-initiated
transactions
c) Availability (Use). The number of Provider Aborts experienced by the ANSP and manually
reported availability problems affecting a single aircraft.
Note. Measuring actual probability of A(USE) according to formal definition is problematic. An
acceptable indication is by counting the number of provider aborts (The Air-Ground connectivity is lost
after 6 minutes)
d) Availability(Provision). Defined as Actual hours of CPDLC Operations / Planned Hours of
CPDLC Operations, where:
NZZO,N104UA,B744,UAL,20081114,POR1,AKL1,03:43:25,03:43:35,10,03:44:15,03:44:45,80,30,U118 U80,D0,35,80,45
D.2.2.4.2 Guidance on the type of analysis carried out at an ANSP or regional level is provided
later in paragraphs D.2.4 and D.3.1.
D.2.2.4.3 Because different ANSPs may use different data sets for analysis within their area of
interest the data sent to a regional state monitoring agency should at minimum contain all transactions that
contain a WILCO response. The regional monitoring agency will filter transactions as agreed by their
regional forum.
D.2.3.1 General
D.2.3.1.1 This section provides guidance on data collection and performance measurement for the
ADS-C application.
D.2.3.3 Recording the ADS-C data points for each ADS-C downlink
D.2.3.3.1 The following data points in Table D-3 are recommended as the minimum set that should
be extracted from ANSP data link system recordings to enable an analysis of ADS-C performance and
provide sufficient information for problem analysis. This does not preclude individual ANSP from
extracting additional data points for their own analysis and some possibilities are listed below. To obtain
all of these data points ANSP should note that they will require additional database information to enable
the Aircraft Type and Airline to be obtained by correlation to the aircraft registration extracted from the
data link recordings. All of the other data points are extracted from either the ACARS header or the
ADS-C application message.
NZZO,N104UA,B744,UAL,20081114,POR1,PER,-33.456732,+173.276554,03:44:15,03:44:45,30
D.2.3.4.2 Guidance on the type of analysis carried out at an ANSP or regional level is provided
later in paragraphs D.2.4 and D.3.1.
D.2.4.1 General
D.2.4.1.1 To enable adequate system performance monitoring ANSP should at minimum perform a
monthly analysis of CPDLC RCP and ADS-C performance data. This monitoring will verify system
performance and also enable continuous performance improvement by detecting where specific aircraft or
fleets are not meeting the performance standards.
D.2.4.1.2 While this analysis could be carried out by a regional monitoring agency, it is thought the
analysis will be more efficient if done by the ANSP. It is the ANSP that will usually have the operational
expertise and local area knowledge that is important when identifying problems from any data analysis.
Figure D- 13. ADS-C A343 AAA via SATCOM NZZO FIR Jan May 2009
D.2.4.5.3.5 The issue affecting operator DDD B772 fleet in Figure D- 15 was identified by the
regional CRA as an aircraft issue that affected all B777 aircraft. This was eventually resolved by a
software upgrade. ANSP should note that software upgrades to aircraft may take some time to be
implemented by all airlines. The current performance of operator DDD B772 fleet is depicted in Figure
D- 16.
Figure D- 17. Effect of ACARS channel speed on ADS-C surveillance data transit time
D.2.4.6.6 An ANSP can assess ACARS channel speed use by evaluating the monthly downlink
times for ADS-C reports via SATCOM. For users of high speed channels ANSP will consistently see a
small percentage of reports in the 6-8 second time bands. Low speed channels users usually have very few
reports less than 10 seconds.
D.2.4.6.7 ANSP should identify those operators using the low speed channels and stakeholders
should work with those operators to achieve an upgrade to the high speed channels.
D.2.4.7.6.4 A safety assessment in early 2009 concluded that reduced separation standards using
data link would be withdrawn although CPDLC and ADS-C would continue to be used.
D.2.4.7.6.5 The cause of the problem was identified in mid 2009 as a system level GES issue.
This was caused by the implementation of new cabin services on the aircraft that were gradually installed
on the fleet from late 2008 until the middle of 2009. This explained the continuing performance
degradation through this period.
D.2.4.7.6.6 A software fix was released in early 2010 with observed performance levels for the
fleet returning to normal immediately and meeting the RSP180/RCP240 standard.
D.2.4.7.6.7 Reduced separation standards were restored to the fleet in April 2009 after monitoring
had demonstrated that performance standard compliance had been achieved.
D.3.1 General
D.3.1.1 The working principles in this guidance material result from the combined experience of
the North Atlantic, Asia-Pacific, South American, African-Indian Ocean, and European Regions. Many
regions have formed a regional monitoring agency to manage the problem reporting and resolution
process.
D.3.1.2 All stakeholders should be actively involved in the problem reporting and resolution
process. It is essential that all aircraft operators in a region have the opportunity to become involved in the
process and CRAs should be pro-active in getting all aircraft operators and other stakeholders to register
and participate in the process.
D.3.1.3 The problem identification and resolution process, as it applies to an individual problem,
consists of a data collection phase, followed by problem analysis and coordination with affected parties to
secure a resolution, and recommendation of interim procedures to mitigate the problem in some instances.
This is shown in the Figure D- 20.
D.4.1 General
D.4.1.1 This section provides guidance on periodic reporting by individual ANSP of observed
system performance in their airspace that will enable regional performance metrics to be developed for
the availability, CPDLC transaction time and ADS-C surveillance data transit time requirements specified
in Appendix B and Appendix C.
D.4.1.2 These regional performance metrics should be made available to all interested
stakeholders. The use of regional websites to enhance the distribution of these metrics should be
considered. An example of such a website can be viewed at http://www.ispacg-cra.com/.
D.4.1.3 It is recommended that regions implement monthly performance reporting to obtain
system performance metrics. These reports will provide data on observed availability, CPDLC transaction
time and ADS-C surveillance data transit time as described herein.
Figure D- 25. Example ANSP monthly report that will enable graphical analysis
E.1 General
E.1.1 This Appendix provides Regional/State specific information grouped per ICAO Regions
pertaining to the data link operations.
ADS-C
Address
Accra DGAC
Abidjan DIII
Algeria O O N DAAA
(Alger)
Antananarivo O O N FMMM
(Madagascar)
Brazzaville FCCC
Canarias GCCC
Capetown O O N FACT
Casablanca
Dakar O O N GOOO DKRCAYA
Oceanic
(Senegal)
Johannesburg O O N FAJO JNBCAYA Confirm CPDLC CDA: One
Oceanic CPDLC position report at
boundary.
Luanda
Mauritius O O N FIMM Confirm CPDLC CDA: One
CPDLC position report at
boundary.
Niamey O O N DRRR
(Niger)
Sal Oceanic GVSC
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Tunis
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
area (CTA) address ACARS
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Kingston
Mazatlan T T N MMMX ANIWG Currently trialing ADS-C and
Oceanic CPDLC. Primary
communication via voice. Full
HF reporting still required.
Mexico
Miami
Oceanic
Nassau
New York O O N KZWY NYCODYA NAT CNSG DO NOT use CPDLC for
Oceanic position reporting. Use ADS-
(south of 27 C or voice only.
N) SELCAL check via HF are
required for all FANS
connected aircraft prior to
entering the CTA/FIR.
DO NOT send a CPDLC
position report to confirm
CDA prior to, or upon
crossing the FIR.
Port-Au-
Prince
PIARCO T T N TTZP ANIWG Currently trialing ADS-C and
(NAM/CAR CPDLC. Primary
Air Navigation communication via voice.
Implementation Full HF reporting still
Working required.
Group)
San Juan
Santo
Domingo
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
E.4.1.1.4 Table E-EUR- 2 lists the contact information of the EUR region and the website URL of
the Central Reporting Office (CRO).
DOWNLINK The aircraft receives a message timestamp that The controller should revert
TIMESTAMP indicates a future time greater than 2 seconds to voice.
INDICATES FUTURE from the current time.
TIME.
E.4.3.1 General
E.4.3.1.4 Responding to concatenated message elements with response attribute other than Y
E.4.3.1.4.1 The permitted response will be messages containing one of the following message
elements: DM 100 LOGICAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT (if required), DM 2 STANDBY, DM 0 WILCO,
DM 1 UNABLE, DM 63 NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY, DM 107 NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT
DATA AUTHORITY or DM 62 ERROR message element.
E.4.3.1.4.2 The closure response message will be a message containing one of the following
message elements: DM 0 WILCO, DM 1 UNABLE, DM 63 NOT CURRENT DATA AUTHORITY,
DM 107 NOT AUTHORIZED NEXT DATA AUTHORITY or DM 62 ERROR message element.
E.4.3.1.4.3 The DM 0 WILCO or DM 1 UNABLE response messages will operationally apply to
the entire uplink concatenated message see paragraph 5.3.1.3 and paragraph 5.3.1.4.
E.4.3.1.4.4 As responses to a ground initiated dialogue, ground systems are required to also
support the following downlink concatenated messages:
REQUEST REJECTED The ground system receives a downlink The flight crew must respond
REPLY TO (dialogue request, and there is an existing open uplink to the uplink before being
type) UPLINK FIRST containing the same type. The downlink able to send a downlink
request is discarded. request of this type.
Dialogue type is one of Note. Ground systems only accept one
the following: LEVEL, data link exchange of a given type at the
HEADING, SPEED, same moment.
ROUTE.
TOO MANY CPDLC The ground system receives a downlink The flight crew should make
REQUESTS - USE request, and discards a message because the the request/s by voice.
VOICE maximum number of open operational
dialogues with the aircraft is exceeded and If there are only downlink
there is no pending uplink message. requests, the flight crew
Note. The total number of data link cannot do anything about it.
exchanges with an aircraft may be limited
by some ground systems. This means that
If there is at least one uplink
further requests will be rejected.
expecting a response, the
flight crew can respond to that
clearance first to enable
reception of a downlink
request.
MESSAGE DOES NOT The ground system receives a downlink The flight crew should revert
CONTAIN FACILITY message that contains the unitname data to voice.
NAME. type, but rejects the message because it
does not also contain the facilityname data
type and discards the message.
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Bahrain
Emirates
Ho Chi Minh VVTS
Kuala WMFC
Lumpur
Kuwait
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Jacksonville N N N
Kansas City N N N
Los Angeles N N N
Memphis N N N
Miami N N N
Minneapolis N N N
New York O O N KZWY NYCODYA NAT DO NOT use CPDLC for
CNSG position reporting. Use
ADS-C or voice only.
SELCAL check via HF are
required for all FANS
connected aircraft prior to
entering the CTA/FIR.
DO NOT send a CPDLC
position report to confirm
CDA prior to, or upon
crossing the FIR.
Oakland O O N KZAK OAKODYA IPACG CPDLC voice transfer:
FIT CONTACT KSFO
ISPACG CENTER [frequency]
FIT KSFO (San Francisco
Radio) will provide all
primary and secondary HF
frequencies, and HF transfer
points along the route of
flight.
Confirm CPDLC CDA: One
CPDLC position report at
FIR boundary.
Salt Lake N N N
Seattle N N N
Washington N N N
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Table E-NAT- 3. Regional monitoring agency websites available for problem reporting
Regional monitoring agency Website URL
NAT Data Link Monitoring Agency http://www.ispacg-cra.com/
(NAT DLMA) co-managed with the
Informal South Pacific ATC
Coordinating Group (ISPACG) and
ISPACG Central Reporting Agency
(CRA) and CRASA
E.7.3.1.1.4 If the flight will exit the CTA into oceanic and remote airspace, on initial contact with
the CTA the flight crew should:
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
FMC WPR
(CTA) address ACARS Group
CPDLC
ADS-C
Address
Table E-PAC- 3. Regional monitoring agency websites available for problem reporting
Regional monitoring agency Website URL
Informal South Pacific ATC http://www.ispacg-cra.com/
Coordinating Group (ISPACG) and
ISPACG Central Reporting Agency
(CRA) and CRASA
ADS-C
Address
Remarks
FANS 1/A, FANS 1/A+ and ATN B1 packages are available on aircraft as listed below. The list is
intended only to indicate availability of products on aircraft models. It does not indicate, for example:
a) Actual equipage and use;
b) Capability to load route clearance information from CPDLC messages directly into an FMS;
or
c) Where FANS 1/A and ATN B1 are available on the same aircraft, that these aircraft support
automatic CPDLC transfers.
Airbus A320
FANS A+ (CSB4)
FANS A+ Data link Recording (CSB7)
FANS B+ (CSB6) as ATN B1
Airbus A330, A340
FANS A (CLR3)
FANS A+ (CLR4)
FANS A+ Data link Recording (CLR7)
Airbus A380
FANS A+ Data link Recording (CLA3)
FANS A+B (CLA4) as FANS 1/A-ATN B1
Airbus A350
FANS A+B (CLV1) as FANS 1/A-ATN B1
Boeing B747-400, 717, MD-90, MD-10, MD-11
FANS 1
Boeing B737, B757, B767
FANS 1+ (all)
ATN B1 (without FANS 1)
Boeing B777, B787
FANS 1+ (all)
FANS 2 (AIMS-2) as FANS 1+ and ATN B1
Boeing 747-8
FANS 2 as FANS 1+ and ATN B1
Airbus A380
On the A380 aircraft, the flight crew cannot change the aircraft registration in the FN_CON message.
The aircraft registration is provided by the aircraft system.
Airbus A320, A330, A340
These aircraft do not have an essential data source for this datum, which means that the maintenance /
flight crew needs to verify that the aircraft registration used for data link comm. is correct.
Boeing B787
On the B787 aircraft, the flight crew cannot change the aircraft registration in the FN_CON message.
The aircraft registration is provided by the aircraft system.
Boeing B737, B747-400, B747-8, B777, B757, B767, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11
These aircraft do not have an essential data source for this datum, which means that the flight crew
needs to verify that the aircraft registration is correct.
Remarks
If the aircraft is establishing or in the process of establishing a connection with a previously designated
next data authority, and a message with a new UM 160 NEXT DATA AUTHORITY [icao facility
designation] message element is received, the aircraft sends DISCONNECT REQUEST (DR1) for this
connection with the next data authority.
Airbus
If the facility designation in the new UM 160 NEXT DATA AUTHORITY is the same as the facility
designation that the aircraft already retains, the aircraft discards the new UM 160 NEXT DATA
AUTHORITY and the connections will not be affected.
Boeing
In the above case the connection will be terminated.
The only CPDLC CR1 message processed normally by FANS 1 is the first CPDLC CR1 following a
FN-CON (i.e. FN-CON was initiated when no CPDLC connection exists).
a) When the flight crew selects either the ACCEPT or the REJECT prompt, the avionics automatically
transmits the correct response (DM 0 WILCO, DM 3 ROGER, DM 4 AFFIRM, DM 1 UNABLE, or
DM 5 NEGATIVE) for the corresponding message.
b) On FANS 1 equipped aircraft, the flight crew cannot add any other element to a positive response.
c) On some 747-400 airplanes with FANS-1, once the flight crew selects the ACCEPT or REJECT
prompt, the VERIFY page displays DM 0 WILCO, DM 3 ROGER, or DM 1 UNABLE.
Boeing B747-400
If the network acknowledgement to a downlink message is not received by the B747-400 aircrafts
ACARS Management Unit within a time period set in the Navigation Database or Operational Program
Configuration (OPC) file, the FANS 1 closes the message and an alert is triggered to the flight crew.
This alert may prompt the flight crew to re-send the message. Once back IN COMM the ACARS
Management Unit will transmit any queued messages. The timer value is set to 5 minutes. If a second
message is identical to the first, but with a different message identification number, and both messages
have been received and responded to by the controller, the aircraft system will only recognize the
message identification number of the second message. The aircraft system considers the first message to
have been unsuccessful.
In reply to the controllers response to the first message, the aircraft system will send an INVALID
REFERENCE NUMBER ERROR.
The controllers response to the second message will be processed normally.
In this case, if the controller ignores the first message, the connections to both ATS systems will not be
lost when an End Service message is received on board the aircraft.
Boeing B737, B747-8, B757, B767, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11
When the network acknowledgement timer expires, it just unlocks the request pages, so that the flight
crew will be able to send another one. The time at which the network acknowledgement timer expires
can be set in the Operational Program Configuration (OPC) file in the FMS. Currently, the value is set
to 5 minutes.
Boeing B777, B787
This network acknowledgement timer does not apply to these aircraft.
Boeing
If there are OPEN uplinks in the ATC LOG when the CDA initiates transfer of communication to the
Next Data Authority, the FMC will allow transfer to the Next Data Authority (i.e. the avionics will not
disconnect the next data authority). This allows a smooth transfer to the next Flight Information Region
if there are open uplinks at the time of transfer.
Airbus A330, A340 FANS A
If there are OPEN uplinks when the CDA initiates transfer of communication to the Next Data
Authority, the avionics will disconnect all CPDLC connection.
Airbus A320, A330, A340, A380 FANS A+
If there are OPEN uplinks when the CDA initiates transfer of communication to the Next Data
Authority, the avionics will allow transfer to the Next Data Authority (i.e. the avionics will not
disconnect the next data authority). This allows a smooth transfer to the next Flight Information Region
if there are open uplinks at the time of transfer.
Airbus
If a periodic contract is active, the emergency reports will be transmitted at the existing periodic
interval. Otherwise, the interval will default to 64 seconds.
Boeing
If a periodic contract is active, the emergency reports will be transmitted at the existing periodic
interval. Otherwise, the interval will default to 304 seconds.
Airbus
For FANS A+ and FANS A+B aircraft, when a new FANS 1/A CPDLC connection becomes active, this
function automatically sets the [delayed message parameter] to the default NONE value (i.e. there is no
check of a delayed CPDLC message until the flight crew manually sets a new value).
a) It is possible the flight crew may activate the function by setting a value for the [delayed
message parameter], even if not instructed to do so.
b) If an ATSU is not using the message latency monitor and receives the above downlink, the
following free text message may be sent: SET MAX UPLINK DELAY VALUE TO 999 SEC. This
will minimize the possibility of subsequent uplink messages being rejected.
For all Airbus aircraft, the flight crew will not see delayed messages when the function is activated.
Such a message is rejected, the ATSU will receive the following downlink message: INVALID DATA
UPLINK DELAYED IN NETWORK AND REJECTED RESEND OR CONTACT BY VOICE. This
message will refer to the delayed CPDLC uplink message.
Boeing (all except B747-400)
For most Boeing aircraft with a FANS-1+ connection, when a new active CPDLC connection is
established, this function is automatically set to OFF with the following exceptions:
a) Boeing aircraft, except B777 and B787, whose FANS 1/A+ CPDLC connection has been
transferred will maintain the value of the [delayed message parameter], which was enabled during the
previous CPDLC connection;
b) Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft will maintain the value of the [delayed message parameter],
which was enabled during any previous CPDLC connection, until the aircraft has landed at which time
the value will be set to an operator-specified value in the aircrafts data base;
c) It is possible the flight crew may set a value for the [delayed message parameter], even if not
instructed to do so; and
d) For aircraft with a FANS-1+ connection, the message is displayed to the flight crew with a
delayed message indication.
Airbus
The Frequencysatchannel parameter is defined as being a NumericString type having the values {space,
0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9}.
Boeing
The Frequencysatchannel parameter is defined as being a NumericString type having the values {0, 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9}.
Airbus
Five ADS-C connections are available for ATS use.
Boeing B747-400
One of the ADS-C connections is reserved for operator use, and will only connect with the address
specified in the aircrafts database. The other 4 connections may be used by ATSUs.
Boeing B737, B747-8, B777, B757, B767, B787, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11
Five connections are available for ATS use.
Boeing B747-400, B747-8, B777, B757, B767, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11
When an offset is entered (or modified), the path from which lateral deviation is computed is
immediately offset by the requisite distance. If a lateral deviation event contract is in place, and the
deviation limit is less than the change in the offset, then an LDE report will be sent as soon as the offset
is entered and executed.
Boeing B737, B787
When an offset is entered or modified, the FMS computes a path to fly to reach the new offset. Lateral
deviation is the distance the aircraft is from this path, so entry of an offset does not affect the aircrafts
lateral deviation, and no LDE report will be issued as a result of an offset entry
Airbus
Airbus aircraft can only respond to UM 135 CONFIRM ASSIGNED ALTITUDE with DM 38
ASSIGNED ALTITUDE [altitude], and not DM 77 ASSIGNED BLOCK [altitude] TO [altitude].
Assigned block levels will have to be reported with a free text message.
Boeing B777 AIMS-1
B777 aircraft with the AIMS-1 avionics (and those with AIMS-2 prior to Blockpoint v14) can only
respond to UM 135 CONFIRM ASSIGNED ALTITUDE with DM 38 ASSIGNED ALTITUDE
[altitude], and not DM 77 ASSIGNED BLOCK [altitude] TO [altitude].
Assigned block altitudes will have to be reported with a free text message.
Boeing B777 AIMS-2 and all other Boeing aircraft
Other Boeing aircraft (including B777 aircraft with AIMS-2 and Blockpoint v14 or later) can respond to
UM 135 CONFIRM ASSIGNED ALTITUDE with either DM 38 ASSIGNED ALTITUDE [altitude], or
DM 77 ASSIGNED BLOCK [altitude] TO [altitude].
Remarks
ED110B/DO280B requires ATN B1 aircraft to send a successful CM Contact Response to a T-ATSU as
soon as a Logon response was received from the R-ATSU, whatever the result (successful or not).
Airbus
FANS B+ and FANS A+B aircraft deviate from this requirement.
FANS B+ and FANS A+B aircraft will send a successful CM Contact Response to the T-ATSU only if
the Logon procedure with the R-ATSU succeeds.
FANS B+ and FANS A+B aircraft will send a unsuccessful CM Contact Response to the T-ATSU :
if the sending of the Logon Request to the R-ATSU fails, or
if the no Logon Response is received in due time, or
if the Logon response from the R-ATSU indicated failure.
Boeing
When a FANS uplink containing a concatenated end-service (um161) and ERROR (um159), the flight
crew will be presented with a display indicating a DOWNLINK ERROR.
While this construct is recommended in DO-258/ED-100, Section 4.6.2.2.2, it was not included in DO-
219, which is the basis of FANS designs. ATC should therefore avoid using this type of concatenated
message.
Airbus
Boeing B747-400, B757, B767, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11 and B777 or B787 without FANS-2
Once an AFN logon has been performed, the airplane will accept a CPDLC connection request (CR1)
from any ATC Center. It is not required to be the center with which the AFN logon was performed.
Boeing B747-8, B777 and B787 with FANS-2
Once a CM or AFN logon has been performed, the airplane will accept a CPDLC connection request or
CPDLC start from any center.
Boeing B747-400, B747-8, B777, B757, B767, B717, MD90, MD10, MD11
If the route constructed by the flight crew or data linked from the airline contains such waypoints, then
downlinked routes, position reports and requests for clearances (such as climbs or offsets) to start at a
waypoint on the route will contain the ARINC 424 waypoint names.
Boeing B787
Whole-degree waypoints of this type in the route will be converted to the equivalent latitude/longitude
for ATC downlinks.