Eurocontrol is extending its "pioneer" programme of subsidising the first airlines that agree to fit VHF datalink-2 (VDL-2) controller-pilot datalink communications (CPDLC). The agency has met its original target of 100 equipped aircraft, and the reason for extending the incentive scheme is to attract factory-fitted new-build aircraft into the pioneer group, says CPDLC programme manager Alex Wandels. Boeing is equipping some new-delivery 737s destined for Spanish carrier Air Europa with VDL-2, says Wandels, and Airbus has also committed to the programme.
Source: Flight International