Online Training: Controller pilot data link communications (CPDLC)

Pilot: Greensboro Ground, Cherokee 8121K, general aviation ramp, VFR, 5,500 to Raleigh with [information] Sierra.

Ground: Cherokee 8121K, Greensboro Ground, cleared to Raleigh, maintain VFR at or below 3,000, departure frequency 118.5, squawk 4234, advise when ready to taxi.

Pilot: Cherokee 8121K is cleared to Raleigh, maintain VFR at or below 3,000, departure frequency 118.5, squawk 4234, we’re ready to taxi.

Ground: Cherokee 21K, taxi to Runway 23.

Pilot: Taxi to Runway 23, Cherokee 21K

Communication is key – especially in aviation.

Typically, communication between pilots and Air Traffic Control is conducted through radio calls. However, there are some major – and possibly serious – disadvantages to using radio communication, including being limited to one radio at a time, lag in response, and sometimes poor reception. In fact, a survey from the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Aviation Safety Reporting System found that incorrect or incomplete pilot-controller communication is a causal or circumstantial factor in 80 percent of incidents or accidents.

Enter Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). CPDLC is an air-to-ground means of communication via preformatted text messages displayed on a screen in the cockpit. This form of communication helps increase efficiency, reduce workload, reduce voice communication errors, and allow simultaneous communication.

The CPDLC course will help teach you how to effectively communicate when you’re in the cockpit.

Course Summary

This course is intended for flight crew operating CPDLC equipped aircraft. It covers the components and operation of Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) equipment. These systems are part of the Future Air Navigation (FANS 1/A) system, now in common use throughout the world.

Course Outline

Module 1: System Components / Ground Service Providers

Module 2: General Procedures

Module 3: CPDLC Operations

Module 4: ADS-B and ADS-C Operation

Course Details

The course length is 1-2 hours. Each module has exam-generated system banked questions as well as reference material. Regulatory compliance with ICAO / EASA / FAA / Transport Canada and maintains compliance with IOSA standards. 

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