Position Paper IFALPA: The Use of Satellite Voice Communications (SATVOICE) for Air Traffic Control Operations

The discussion of expanding Satellite Voice Communications (SATVOICE) into the realm of Direct Controller - Pilot Communications (DCPC) and as a sole source of Long Range Communications Systems (LRCS) is evolving. Many shortcomings have been identified and specifications for new system development needs to resolve these shortcomings before SATVOICE can be approved as a substitute means of communication. The limitations of current systems must be accounted for and the risks mitigated. The areas include Human Machine Interface (HMI), DCPC, ATC Vectoring, Call priorities, Satellite limitations, avionics limitations, flight plans, and Short Code implementation.

Safety Bulletin: (update) Winter Conditions at Northern Finland Airports

Please note: this paper supersedes 19SAB12 – Winter Conditions at Northern Finland Airports. Safe winter operations normally require special procedures by airline maintenance, engineering, ground crew, and de-icing personnel. In Finland, FINAVIA and TRAFICOM publish an annual Safety Bulletin on winter conditions. This bulletin focuses on operations in northern Finland but the content is relevant to other locations subject to similar weather. It provides excellent guidance for both flight crews and operators.

Press Release: IFALPA on Air India Express Flight IX 1344

The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) is closely monitoring the developments related to today’s accident of Air India Express Flight IX-1344, a Boeing 737-800 that overran runway 10 upon landing at Kozhikode International airport in India, and continued down a high slope, breaking into several parts.