The Single Sky Committee at the European Commission adopted an implementing rule that will see full-scale implementation of datalink services across Europe by 2015. Under the terms of the rule, datalink will be used in three areas –– handling repetitive frequency changes, providing standard clearances and enabling communication in case of blocked radio frequencies. Based on the LINK 2000+ Program’s Datalink Services, it relies on ATN/VDL2 technology to ensure minimum levels of interoperability, but is also open to other technologies under specific conditions, Eurocontrol said. “This is the most complex rule we have yet tackled since it involved so many stakeholders. In particular it places obligations directly on both Airspace Users and Air Navigation Service Providers for an end-to-end system involving pilots and controllers. In many ways this was seen as a test case for interoperability regulation,” said Eduardo Morere Molinero, responsible for Single European Sky interoperability issues at the European Commission.