Air Carrier Compliance Group
LOA A056 · Part 91

Data Link (CPDLC / ADS-C) Letter of Authorization

Use controller-pilot data link and ADS-C over the ocean and in foreign airspace. We prepare your A056 package, including the monitoring and reporting procedures the FAA expects.

What data link is

CPDLC (controller-pilot data link communications) lets pilots and controllers exchange clearances and requests as text messages instead of HF voice. ADS-C (automatic dependent surveillance — contract) sends the aircraft’s position to ATC automatically.

Together they allow reduced separation, better routes, and fewer position reports. They are required for much of the North Atlantic and are used across the Pacific and in Europe.

Do you need an LOA?

It depends on where you use it.

NO LOA NEEDED

U.S. domestic data link

Part 91 operators do not need an LOA to use U.S. domestic departure clearances (DCL) or en route CPDLC.

LOA A056 REQUIRED

Oceanic and foreign airspace

  • Oceanic and remote continental airspace, including the NAT Data Link Mandate from FL290 to FL410
  • Foreign airspace where the State requires specific approval
  • PBCS operations (RCP 240 / RSP 180) for performance-based tracks and reduced separation, when authorized

Crossing the North Atlantic? Data link usually goes with NAT HLA and RVSM. Our International Ops Package handles them together.

What the FAA looks for

Qualified equipment

AFM supplement or manufacturer statement showing FANS 1/A (or ATN) capability, subnetworks, and performance.

Recording and MEL

Data link messages recorded as required by §91.609(j), and data link equipment covered in the MEL.

Procedures

Normal, abnormal, and emergency CPDLC and ADS-C procedures, plus the latency timer statement.

Monitoring and reporting

A monitoring process, problem reporting to the monitoring agency, and demonstrated performance results.

What we need from you

  • Aircraft make, model, serial number, and registration
  • AFM supplement and service bulletins for the data link installation
  • CVR/FDR records showing data link recording
  • Your MEL or MMEL data link items
  • Pilot names and data link training records

What we deliver

  • Complete A056 application package
  • CPDLC and ADS-C procedures in your International Operations Manual
  • Data link monitoring and problem reporting procedures
  • Flight plan code review for domestic and international filing
  • Streamlined-ready: when your aircraft manufacturer and training provider take part in the FAA's Streamlined Part 91 Operational Approval program, we prepare your package for streamlined review
  • FSDO coordination and comment resolution until issuance

Where applications get stuck

We see these delays over and over. We check for every one of them before anything goes to the FSDO.

Flight ID mismatch

The flight ID used for logon must exactly match the filed flight plan.

Filing PBCS codes too early

PBCS codes go on the flight plan only when the aircraft and LOA are authorized for PBCS.

No recording proof

Inspectors ask for evidence the CVR records data link messages.

MEL gaps

Data link equipment must be addressed in the MEL or MMEL before approval.

No monitoring program

The FAA expects a written process for monitoring performance and reporting problems.

New owner, old letter

LOAs belong to the operator. A sale means a new application.

Data link questions

Do I need A056 to use CPDLC in the U.S.?

No. Part 91 operators can use U.S. domestic DCL and en route CPDLC without an LOA. A056 is for oceanic, remote, and foreign airspace that requires approval.

What is the NAT Data Link Mandate?

Aircraft flying FL290 to FL410 in most of the North Atlantic must have working CPDLC and ADS-C, unless they fly in exempted airspace or hold a published exemption.

Is PBCS a separate approval?

PBCS is authorized as part of A056 when the aircraft meets RCP 240 and RSP 180. We can include it in your package if your aircraft qualifies.

Does A056 cover Europe?

Yes. A056 covers ATN data link (formerly Link 2000+) used in European airspace as well as FANS over the ocean.

Source

Ready to log on over the ocean?

Send us your aircraft and data link equipment. We will reply with a plan and a flat-rate quote.