Europe Moves On Data Link Standardization

Europe is moving to standardize data link services that will build upon the operational introduction of Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications under the Link 2000+ program.
Eurocontrol, in an April 7 press release, said a number of new data link operational services, including short-term applications for flight information services and medium-term introduction of 4D trajectory operations, are ready for international standardization.
“Now is the right moment to capitalize on the R&D work carried out and to provide our stakeholders with the possibility to maximize the return on their data link investment, and we are committed to the development of global standards that will provide safety, efficiency and capacity benefits for our stakeholders,” said Robert Stewart, Eurocontrol head of communications systems and programs.
A joint RTCA/EUROCAE group, SC-214/WG-78 has been created to develop global data link standards for the next step, Eurocontrol said.