ARINC has signed anagreement with long-time customer AVICOM JAPAN Company to
enhance Japan’s ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) data link infrastructure with more efficient ACARS multiple-service technology.

The technology refreshment will be a significant benefit to civil aviation in Japan by allowing increased data link message traffic for both Aeronautical Operational Control (AOC) and Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications. The project will also meet AVICOM’s objectives to prepare for future Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) and Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN) operations, after the new ARINC systems are in place.

CPDLC is a data link application that allows for direct exchange of text-based messages between air traffic controllers and pilots. The ATN is designed to provide data communication services to Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) for AOC traffic.

ARINC’s replacement project for AVICOM will include a central processing and networking system (CPS and AMQS), together with installation of fully redundant multiple-service ground system (MSGS) capability at 60 current airport sites. The technology includes Multiple-Service Digital Radio (MDR) components that may be used for VHF ACARS, VDL or voice communications by changing software configurations. This means AVICOM will not need to maintain different hardware for each service.

AVICOM JAPAN is the country’s service provider for airline and civil aviation communications, and has a longstanding relationship with ARINC Asia Pacific. They have been using ARINC’s VDL system since 2003, and that system can be integrated with the ACARS system.