Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS) Market Survey 2

Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS) FY2026 Market Survey Synopsis

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting a market survey to explore the development of Controller to Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) services for airports and en route airspace following the expiration of the current Data Communication Integrated Services (DCIS) contract on September 30, 2029. This market survey is not a solicitation or a request for proposal but aims to gather information from industry stakeholders to inform future acquisition strategies.

Background: CPDLC services are currently operational across all 20 Continental United States (CONUS) Centers, with Departure Clearance (DCL) services at 65 airports. These services are facilitated by the En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) system, which uses the Very High Frequency (VHF) Data Link Mode 2 (VDL-2) protocol for communication between air traffic controllers and FANS-equipped aircraft. The current DCIS contract is nearing its 14th year, and the FAA is considering establishing one or multiple 10-year contracts for future services.

Program Objectives: The FAA seeks to ensure excellent, reliable end-to-end performance of CPDLC, gain timely insights into message statuses, obtain affordable services, introduce new technologies seamlessly, and facilitate a risk-minimized transition from DCIS to DDLS.

Scope: The survey focuses on operational network services and associated monitoring, referred to as Data Communications Network Service (DCNS) under the current contract.

Industry Participation: The FAA invites responses from interested parties with capabilities or interest in providing CPDLC services. Respondents are encouraged to share insights on acquisition design, operations, technical topics, and transition strategies from DCIS to DDLS. Key areas of interest include incentivizing performance, introducing new technologies, ensuring accurate monitoring, addressing technical and operational challenges, and facilitating seamless transitions.

Response Guidelines: Interested parties must submit written responses in English, formatted as searchable PDFs, with "DDLS FY2026 Market Survey Response [Company Name]" in the subject line. Proprietary or confidential information should be clearly marked, and submissions should include contact details. Responses are due by September 9, 2026, and questions about the survey should be submitted by August 18, 2026.

Future Activities: The FAA plans to conduct an Industry Day in late summer or early fall, providing opportunities for one-on-one sessions with interested parties. A Screening Information Request (SIR) for DDLS requirements is anticipated for release in the second quarter of FY2029.

This market survey represents an opportunity for industry stakeholders to contribute to the shaping of future CPDLC services and to engage with the FAA in preparation for upcoming acquisition processes.