Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS) Market Survey 2

Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS) FY2026 Market Survey Synopsis Market Survey Synopsis: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) data communications program office extends its appreciation to industry participants for their comprehensive and thoughtful responses to the market survey questions. Details contained in attachment '698KA8 DDLS Market Survey Synopsis 10.19.26" Amendment 2: Post of 698KA8-DDLS FY2026 Market Survey Question and Answer Form - FAA Response Extension of the Market Survey Response date to 4pm EST Wednesday September 16, 2026. Amendment 1: Extension of the Market Survey Response date to 4pm EST September 19, 2026. 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