Data LinkConfusion in the Cockpit

Chuck StewartChief Technical Pilot, Communications17 June, 2015

Data Link Issues

IssuesoTerminologyoCockpit Configurations

• B767 vs B777oRCP/RSP Compliance

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Terminology

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Terminology

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ATCCLEARED ROUTE CLEARANCE

Terminology

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Terminology

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TerminologyRequires Training and Defined SOPs

oFor Example• Select LOAD prompt and PRINT new route.• Use PLAN mode and identify new routing.• Discuss new routing and if acceptable, copy down.• Select ACCEPT prompt.• Select REJECT if new route is not acceptable.• Return to the MOD RTE page.• Select ACTIVATE and EXEC

Effects on PORT?

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TerminologyOther examples

oConfusion between controller and pilots without voice

• Conditional clearances Cleared to FL350 at 30W Prior to 30W, cleared to FL330 Is the conditional clearance still valid?

• Simple Climb to FL350 (without an appended reason; e.g. “for traffic”) Is it directive – pilots have a reject prompt

oHave had crews not acknowledge a frequency change

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Terminology FAA is currently conducting “DCL” trials in Memphis and

Newarko Uses FANS CPDLC to request clearance (UM25)

Europe also accepts DCL requests but through ACARS 623 Consequence at MEM and EWR Trials

o Successful log-on but pilots are then going to ACARS to request clearance.

o They do not receive the DCL and have to revert to voice

Operators pushed hard for terminology change.o Ended up with CPDCL DCL

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Cockpit Configuration B767 vs B777

B767oDisplay is limited

• First page often will be confusingoFMS to printer interface is corrupted in some

configurationsB777

oDisplay is large and easily interpreted

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B777 Display

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Other Issue

Gold Performance Standardso Required Communications Performance (RCP) and

Required Surveillance Performance (RSP)• Eventually will be used as basis for reduced

separation• Crews need to be knowledgeable on the effect of

PORT• Not easy to determine cause if not meeting

performance Aircraft avionics, media switching, ground

station performance, satellite performance, etc

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Thank You