Satcom Direct’s Data Link Unit is First FANS over Iridium System to Achieve FAA C159c TSO Certification

    Oct. 3, 2017
    FANS over Iridium data link systems are cost effective and operate globally giving aircraft flight-deck data connectivity regardless of flight path.
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    Melbourne, Florida, 2 October 2017 - Satcom Direct’s (SD) FANS-1/A Data Link Unit (DLU) is the first system to achieve FAA TSO-C159c for FANS over Iridium flight deck data communications. FAA TSO-C159c (Technical Standard Order) is the latest standard and with this achievement, the company continues to make it easier to become FANS-1/A compliant.

    The DLU, previously the first Iridium data link to receive FAA TSO-C159a in April 2015, has now met an additional certification milestone without any changes to the system’s software or hardware. Mark van Berkel, General Manager of SD’s avionics division says, “TSO certification makes it simpler to obtain an STC, easing installation, while allowing owners and operators to both reap the benefits of more efficient routes, and preserve the critical safety features of FANS-1/A compliance. This accomplishment is a testament to the DLU’s robust software and hardware design, which has been demonstrated to meet the latest minimum operational performance standards— RTCA/DO-262 MOPS - for operators who want to comply with the 2020 ADS-C mandate.”

    “We see increasing demand for FANS—Future Air Navigation System—over Iridium solutions,” said Jim Jensen, SD Chairman and CEO. “Our DLU plays a key role in flight deck safety and we constantly evaluate technology to bring the best solutions and support to our customers. That it also dovetails with our FlightDeck Freedom solution offers operators a complete solution for the flight deck.”

    FANS over Iridium data link systems are cost effective and operate globally giving aircraft flight-deck data connectivity regardless of flight path. “Our customers required the latest aviation standard. We listened, understood their needs and delivered—this is our way,” explained van Berkel.

    More about the FANS-1/A DLU

    Mindful of safety requirements, owners and operators also expect operational efficiencies. A FANS-1/A data link unit simplifies pilot to controller communication, reduces communications error, eases crew stress and increases efficiency in congested air space. SD’s FANS-1/A DLU is a standalone component that complies with the latest FAA hardware and software standards. Small and lightweight, it operates with a wide variety of existing FMS (Flight Management Systems) via a standard ARINC data interface—which also makes it future-ready. The DLU requires no configuration and has a built-in Iridium transceiver. As operators who fly transoceanic routes understand, increasing commercial and business jet traffic, and the imminent 2020 ADS-C mandate magnify the importance of qualified data link capability, an essential ingredient for FANS 1/A compliance.

    Learn more at www.satcomdirect.com.