NextGen
In order for aircraft to fly across oceanic/remote areas of airspace, a method had to be established to more effectively manage airspace congestion and improve safety. For decades, aircraft pilot position reporting in oceanic regions was via HF radio. However, now with the Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A in effect, improved communications between the pilot and Air Traffic Control (ATC) is through the use of data link technology. Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) solutions for business jet aircraft to meet FANS 1/A compliance are now STC’d and a reality on both forward fit and retrofit installations. Through new CPDLC technology along with improved surveillance being provided automatically with flight position reporting using satellite or VHF data link to the ATC known as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Contract (ADS-C) aircraft will meet the worldwide requirements and allow operators to obtain FANS 1/A operational approvals.
FAA Video Presentation: ADS-B Out and NextGen Capabilities
FANS Benefits:
- Improve safety
- Lower operating costs
- Improve communications
- Improve surveillance
Aircraft Systems Affected:
- Flight Management System (FMS)
- Communications Management Unit (CMU)
- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)
- Satellite Communications (SATCOM)
- Audio Panel
- Annunciation and Aural Alerting Systems
| Phase | Details | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Two center tracks, FL360-FL390 inclusive (no exemptions) | Feb 2013 |
| Current Phase | TCAS II 7.1 Change and mandate | December 2015 |
| Phase 2, Step 1 | All Organized Track System (OTS) FL350-FL390 inclusive (no exemptions) | 2015 |
| Phase 2, Step 2 | FANS 1/A required in all Minimum Navigation Performance Standards (MNPS) airspace FL350-FL390, inclusive | 2017 |
| Phase 2, Step 3 | FANS 1/A required in all MNPS airspace FL290 and above | 2020 |
Link 2000+ is another mandate set for February 2015 and will apply to aircraft flying into any European airspace. Link 2000+ is conceptually similar to CPDLC but will use a different protocol that could add costs to your upgrade. Link 2000+ requires a line-of-sight VHF Data Link (VDL) Mode 2 transceiver and antenna and works with the new higher speed Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN).
ADS-B Out:
ADS-B is a surveillance technology incorporating air and ground aspects that provide Air Traffic Control (ATC) with a more accurate picture of the aircraft’s three-dimensional position in the enroute, terminal, approach and surface environments. The aircraft provides the airborne portion in the form of a broadcast of its identification, position, altitude, velocity, and other information. Because it is uses GPS signals, it expands surveillance services into areas where little or no radar coverage exists. Airworthiness agencies worldwide have issued rules and requirements pertaining to ADS-B equipage.