EQPS - Automation & AFTN

Question 1

What is AFTN? (2)

Answer 1

AFTN - Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network

“A worldwide system of aeronautical fixed circuits provided as part of the aeronautical fixed service for the exchange of messages and/or digital data between stations having the same or compatible communications equipment”

Question 2

What is MOTNE? (2)

Answer 2

MOTNE - Meteorological Operation Telecommunication Network Europe

“A channel of AFS for the exchange of aeronautical meteorological information”

Question 3

What are the AFTN Message priorities? (3)

Answer 3

Question 4

Permitted Transmission Material for AFTN diagram

Answer 4

Question 5

What does the SS AFTN category mean? (1)

Answer 5

SS Distress messages and Traffic

Question 6

What does the DD AFTN category mean? (1)

Answer 6

DD Urgency Messages and Traffic

Question 7

What does the FF AFTN category mean? (1)

Answer 7

FF Flight Safety Messages

Question 8

Who decides what category is afforded in an AFTN message? (1)

Answer 8

The person authorising transmission signs the message to indicate responsibility for assigning priority although the signature itself is not transmitted

Question 9

What message topics are assigned as GG? (4)

Answer 9

1. Meteorological messages (TAF / METAR)
2. Flight regularity messages
3. Aeronautical Administrative messages
4. NOTAM / SNOWTAM messages
5. Essential AD info
6. Operation of Aeronautical Facilities

Question 10

What message topics are assigned as KK? (2)

Answer 10

1. Reservation messages
2. General Aircraft Operating Agency messages

Question 11

What message topics are assigned as FF? (5)

Answer 11

1. Filed Flight Plan(FPL)
2. Co-ordination
3. Supplementary
4. Control
5. Air Traffic Incident report
6. SIGMET

Question 12

What is OLDI? (2)

Answer 12

OLDI - On-Line Data Interchange

A protocol for co-ordination and transfer of current flight data between adjacent air traffic control units

Question 13

What is the reliability (%) requirement for OLDI at every unit? (1)

Answer 13

99.86%

Question 14

What are the benefits of OLDI? (4)

Answer 14

1. Automation of routine actions
2. Reduced controller workload (Verbal comms)
3. Better situational awareness
4. Indirect improvement of ATS system safety features

Question 15

What other networks are available in conjunction with AFTN? (2)

Answer 15

SITA - Société Internationale Telecommunications Association
OFTS - Overseas Fixed Telecommunications Service