CPDLC DCL Alert

We’ve come to understand that there exists a restriction in the practical application of CPDLC DCL within the U.S. NAS. This restriction is specific to the FAA Data Comm system, and therefore impacts all users and all FMS regardless of OEM.

When issued a CPDLC DCL other than “Cleared As Filed”, the clearance will include a loadable route (“Push to Load”), which the crew must Insert and Activate. This loaded route will NOT contain the assigned SID. If the Runway and SID had been previously loaded into the FMS, this action may retain the Runway and associated performance information but will drop the SID and its associated waypoint list segments and constraints. Consequently, the crew will need to reinsert and activate the SID for which they’ve been cleared.

The FAA and its industry partners are exploring options that may allow the DCL system to incorporate the SID into the loadable clearance. In the meantime, crews are encouraged to comply with SOPs and remain vigilant in verifying that the FMS is properly programmed with the cleared flight segments, as well as altitude and speed constraints, and that the appropriate level of automation (flight guidance, autoflight, autothrottles) and crew coordination is briefed and implemented.