Future Air Navigation Systems (FANS)

Reduce voice channels congestion and minimise communication errors

Control Tower

Increase flexibility

FANS development (FANS C/4D and FANS C/4D Over SATCOM) will grant new beneficial services with a higher accepted ATC request rate.

Fly to the 4th dimension

Time constraints will enable better predictability which is the baseline of an optimised flight path.

Enhance communication

Datalink communication reduces possible misunderstanding between controllers and pilots.

Air Traffic Communications enhancement

In today’s busy Air Traffic Control (ATC) environment, congestion on the voice channels used by air traffic controllers and pilots can be one of the limiting factors in sector capacity and safety.
Future Air Navigation System (FANS) brings the capacity of texting messages between pilots and Air Traffic Controller in a flexible, reliable and secured manner.

Depending on the world region or network, different FANS applications are in use:
- On ACARS Network: Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) and ADS Contract (ADSC) applications through HF, VHF and SATCOM communication means
- On ATN Network:  Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) applications through VHF Data Link and HF Data Link.

The CPDLC application with its range of pre-defined texting provides access to services like Oceanic Clearance (OCL), Departure Clearance (DCL) or Digital Automatic Terminal Information Service (D-ATIS).
The ADSC with its automatic broadcast of AC position data and other surveillance data will provide access to future 4th Dimension (4D) function.

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A320neo taxiing

FANS local authorities plans

Worldwide deployment

EASA ATN B1 and B2 roadmaps

CPDLC is mandated in Europe since February 2020 (aircraft flying to Europe, except if exempted).
Airbus capable solutions:

  • FANS B+ 
  • FANS A+B  
  • FANS C 4D (Mandated for aircraft with 1st CoA 31st Dec 2027)
Airbus Systems and airframe upgrades

FAA roadmap

CPDLC and ADS C are part of the FAA NextGen Programme with a best equipped, best served philosophy. 
Airbus capable solutions:

  • FANS A+ 
  • FANS A+B 
  • FANS C/4D
Planet Earth at night, illuminated by city lights, surrounded by a light network, representing the main air routes.

North Atlantic requirements

Since 2020, all aircraft crossing the North Atlantic shall be equipped with CPDLC and ADS C to be allowed to fly above FL185.
Airbus capable solutions:

  • FANS A+ 
  • FANS A+B 
  • FANS C/4D

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