CPDLC position reports
Hi,
I, and my company, are new to CPDLC. Obviously, we have published guidance but it doesn't cover everything.
My question is:
Does ATC typically expect the pilots to manually send position reports through the FMC's "ATC position report" function at compulsory reporting points, or does ATC get all the info they need automatically from the ADS uplink (which, as I understand it, gives them continuous aircraft position/altitude information through satcom datalink)? We have been using the manual report function just to be on the safe side, but have heard reports that some agencies like Gander do not expect or require it.
Also, what is the proper phraseology for indicating to a controlling agency that you have CPDLC capability on initial voice check in?
I have been saying something to the effect of:
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Me: Nadi Control, Airline 1234 on 8861
Them: Airline 1234, Nadi Control, Go ahead.
Me: Airline 1234, position (FIR Boundary), FL400, SELCAL check AB-CD, affirmative CPDLC, over.
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Of course we have already logged on to CPDLC 15-45 minutes prior to the FIR boundary and should have the next controlling agency showing as the active center roughly 30NM prior to the FIR boundary.
Thanks for any clarification you can provide.