Controller-pilot datalink communications (CPDLC) is being expanded in the Montreal flight information region to include messages containing route clearances. According to Nav Canada Aeronautical Information Circular (AIC) 15/23, implementation of CPDLC route clearance messages will be communicated via notams before initiation. CPDLC has been used in the Montreal FIR on a limited basis since 2012.
Under the expanded procedures, Montreal ATC will be able to accept pilot-initiated CPDLC route requests and uplink the appropriate clearance using flight management system (FMS) loadable data, thereby reducing readback/hearback and transposition errors. After receiving a clearance that can be automatically loaded into the FMS, the pilot should load the clearance into the FMS and review it before responding with “wilco,” “unable,” or “standby.”
To mitigate errors associated with pilots failing to promptly load or execute the new route clearances, controllers may verify new routes using ADS-C reports or by sending “confirm assigned route.” Pilots are to respond with “assigned route” followed by the clearance details. In aircraft unable to send “assigned route” due to system limitations, pilots should respond with the text message “unable to send route.”
AIC 15/23 also contains pointers to assist pilots in avoiding clearance misunderstandings from failing to load data correctly.