EGLL data link questions

[Spooky 2]

A few questions for the local or frequent operators into Heathrow;

Does EGLL use datalink for pushback and taxi? If so are you logging on to London on EGTT and assuming your westbound for N. America, at what point do you log on to Shanwick/ORCA, (EGGX) for your oceanic clearance.

All replies are appreciated

[wiggy]

1. Data link is used for the pre-departure ATC clearance only, so no log-on as such, just a request sent into the ether (via the datalink menu)..... Taxi or push back is done the old fashioned way by VHF voice.

2. After takeoff the request for Oceanic clearance is again via Datalink not earlier than 90min before oceanic entry (which ex-LHR usually means getting the request done during the climb).

3. The actual Log-on to CPDLC with EGGX is not done until a maximum of 45 minutes prior to Oceanic entry, so you're usually over Ireland.

[Spooky 2]

Wiggy, are you calling Delivery or Ground for the start-up and pushback authoriztion. I'm using Stand 319 as a point of reference.

Thanks again!

[TopBunk]

Spooky2

I retired 2 years ago from BA, but looking at the charts and stand 319 you should call Delivery on 121.975 for start clearance; you will then be told to contact Ground on 121.7 (for that part of Terminal 3) [or 121.85 or 121.9 for other areas] who will issue push clearance.

There is no implied push clearance when cleared to start.

HTH

[Spooky 2]

Thanks Top Bunk. This is information is being gathered for an ETOPS LOFT script. All my experience in and out of London was Gatwick and that was quite awhile ago to boot and well before this much datalink was available,

[TopBunk]

Spooky2

OK, to develop it further (from memory):

1. You get the ATIS by ACARS or from the VHF frequency
2. You fill in the ACARS Pre Departure Request Page boxes with the Stand/ATIS letter/Callsign etc etc and send that off to ATC
3.You get your clearance back from ATC by datalink with the SID and squawk code and set up the aircraft appropriately
4. WHen doors closed and ready, you call delivery and advise "Delivery, ABC 123 stand 319 fully ready, data link clearance received, squawk 1234"
5. They will reply with "Cleared to start, hold position,contact Ground on xxx.x" - frequency for your stand (assumes the time you call at allows comlpiance with the CTOT (Slot Time)). If you don't they will ask you to contact your Ops people to get a new slot or may offer to get one for you!
6. You acknowledge instruction and switch to Ground
7. You call Ground and say "ABC123, Stand 319, Ready for Push"
8. They reply with instructions "Clear to Push, face South/whatever" or "After the Thai 747, clear to Push face North/whatever"
9. You call for taxi instruction when started and tow truck removed
10. etc

Note: If you need to start an engine on stand, tell Delivery on first contact, and they will give you the authorisation and any restriction (idle power only etc)

HTH

[wiggy]

Topbunk.....that's pretty much the way it still works, glad to see your memory hasn't let you down (yet),

[TopBunk]

Thanks Waggy ...... sorry, Wiggy

[Spooky 2]

Thanks to all who have repsonded. Very much appreciated here is Seattle!