Dallas Love Field-based Associated Air Center, through its in-house organization designation authorization (ODA) delegation, obtained FAA STC approval for its first installation of a controller-pilot datalink communication (CPDLC) system, as part of the requirements for future air navigation system (Fans) on a VIP Boeing 737-300. The aircraft, operated by a head-of-state customer, has low time/cycles.
The 737-300, manufactured in 1990, is no longer in production and Boeing does not offer a technical solution in the form of a Service Bulletin or master change of FAA-approved engineering data and parts kit for the installation and integration of the CPDLC/Fans on older aircraft.
AAC’s in-house engineering department developed the engineering data package to support the installation and integration to qualify for the required FAA STC approval for this system. The workscope included the installation of a Fans-compliant flight management system, ACARS, Iridium satcom system, cockpit voice recorder equipped with a back-up battery (replacing the original CVR), VHF communications antenna, GPS antenna and Iridium communications antenna.
