FlightSafety International has released a new datalink training course for the Gulfstream G450 and G550, and through November 4, the iFlightDeck CPDLC course is free on FlightSafety’s FlightBag app. Demos of the app area available at the FlightSafety booth (2679).
Controller pilot datalink communications (CPDLC) is a capability that more pilots are using, as aircraft are equipped with Future Air Navigation System (FANS) equipment. A key feature of CPDLC datalinking is using the airplane’s FMS to send and receive canned and freeform text-style messaging. FANS is required over most North Atlantic airspace, and FANS-equipped aircraft can also take advantage of digital clearance (DCL) services at more than 50 airports in the U.S. DCL allows users to obtain and modify IFR clearances via datalink instead of over voice on the radio, significantly speeding up the process and allowing DCL-capable aircraft to depart before non-equipped aircraft.
The CPDLC course runs as an iFlightDeck operational-use trainer, replicating the exact steps needed to fly from London to New York. The program covers digital ATIS, logging on in London, takeoff and departure, requesting altitude and speed changes, oceanic clearances, abnormal and emergency situations, weather deviations, free texting, DCL and much more.
Pilots can run through the entire CPDLC course to learn how to use the new technology, or use it as a refresher before a trip. Each subject can be reviewed on its own so it isn’t necessary to start at the beginning. For a refresher on digital clearances, for example, the user just clicks on the CPDLC-DCL section.
Within each subject, the training course moves the pilot step-by-step through the CPDLC process. The user has to select each FMS key to advance, and hints help prompt the right response. Using the app is just like the real thing, and it even includes aural alerts, for example, a two-chime when ATC responds. The only thing missing is tactile feedback from pushing the FMS keys. There are a lot of acronyms involved in CPDLC, and a pop-up box is available for quick look-up of unfamiliar ones.
The app keeps track of progress and awards points based on successful completion of each subject. Clicking on the score shows a list of subject areas and how much of each has been done, so the user can quickly see which areas need revisiting.