Airways NZ introduces domestic DCL

BTN News
Thursday, 23 July 2015
Airways New Zealand has introduced digital departure clearances (DCL), the first operational use of data link technology between air crew and air traffic controllers within New Zealand’s domestic air traffic management environment.

Chief operating officer Pauline Lamb said DCL improves safety and efficiency as well as standardising procedures.

“DCL decreases radio time for pilots and controllers dealing with critical but often-routine radio communications. It also reduces the potential for operational errors caused by language difficulties, and mirrors the systems used in many other countries around the world,” said Lamb.

By replacing many verbal interactions between pilot and controller, DCL eliminates much of the potential for misunderstandings. The system sends digital messages that include standard instrument departure, transition and route instructions for a departing flight and confirmation of the current weather report (ATIS).

Automation confirms the receipt of messages, or alerts users to malfunctions, removing a significant amount of the manual administration previously required.

The service is in use for flights departing from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch that have a compatible (ED85a) communication system.  

Airways NZ introduces domestic DCL

BTN News
Thursday, 23 July 2015
Airways New Zealand has introduced digital departure clearances (DCL), the first operational use of data link technology between air crew and air traffic controllers within New Zealand’s domestic air traffic management environment.

Chief operating officer Pauline Lamb said DCL improves safety and efficiency as well as standardising procedures.

“DCL decreases radio time for pilots and controllers dealing with critical but often-routine radio communications. It also reduces the potential for operational errors caused by language difficulties, and mirrors the systems used in many other countries around the world,” said Lamb.

By replacing many verbal interactions between pilot and controller, DCL eliminates much of the potential for misunderstandings. The system sends digital messages that include standard instrument departure, transition and route instructions for a departing flight and confirmation of the current weather report (ATIS).

Automation confirms the receipt of messages, or alerts users to malfunctions, removing a significant amount of the manual administration previously required.

The service is in use for flights departing from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch that have a compatible (ED85a) communication system.