First FANS CPDLC Retrofit Certification

It has recently been announced that Chicago Jet Group (CJG) and Universal Avionics has received the first FANS CPDLC Certification after retrofitting a Dassault Mystere Falcon 50 with the CPDLC system over Iridium.

CJG completed the installation of UniLink UL-801 CMU with VHF VDLM2 receiver, which will provide the flight crew with a global voice and datalink channel for ACARS, CPDLC and FANS1/A+ messaging.

“The certification of this integrated retrofit system in the Falcon 50 entitles international operators to utilize the significant time and cost advantages offered by flying FANS preferred airspace. This solution provides a certified FANS system prior to the first mandate of February 5, 2015,” said Mike Mitera, President of the Chicago Jet Group.

The retrofit CPDLC system is now ready for the approaching mandates for NextGen, Eurocontrol Link 2000+ which will require the CPDLC for European airspace.  With aircraft flying frequently in the North Atlantic Track System (NATS), the retrofit will allow access to the most preferred tracks, saving time and fuel on transatlantic flights.

“Universal Avionics proudly recognizes Chicago Jet Group’s efforts, working diligently to achieve the first FANS/CPDLC retrofit STC,” said Bruce Bunevich, Universal Avionics’ Great Lakes Regional Sales Manager. “We will continue to work together to provide NextGen avionics solutions for additional airframes,” he added.