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| Universal Avionics FANS and CPDLC solution hardware, including a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS)-Flight Management System (FMS), UniLink UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) and data capable Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). Photo: Universal Avionics |
[Avionics Today 04-06-2016] Universal Avionics has successfully tested Departure Clearances (DCL) using Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) in conjunction with the FAA Tech Center. The company’s Cessna Citation V2, equipped for Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A+, completed the live test of the system in Louisville, Ky.
When equipped and properly trained for CPDLC-DCL, operators have the ability to receive clearances directly from Air Traffic Control (ATC). In the CPDLC-DCL test, it took only 22 seconds to receive clearance after logging on to the tower, which is significantly less than a Pre-Departure Clearance (PDC), according to Universal Avionics. Universal Avionics expects CPDLC-DCL technology to become available to 56 airports throughout 2016.
The company’s FANS and CPDLC solution includes a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS)-Flight Management System (FMS), UniLink UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) and data capable Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). PDCs have been available when using the UniLink CMU, but are only approved up to 30 minutes prior to departure. Any updates to the PDC departure time require a voice clearance.