Description / Abstract: This MASPS defines system requirements for AI and MET Data Link Services systems based on the intended use of such systems to transfer information. The allocation of requirements starts at the system level, with some allocated to specific functions. Requirements are also allocated to the communication mode (Broadcast, Publish- Subscribe, and Request-Reply) used to support information transfer. Requirements are also provided for WxS Service systems based on an intended use of automatically and continuously compiling MET observations onboard aircraft and transferring that information in near real-time to the ground via data link. These requirements provide a means, but not the only means, to establish the operational, safety, performance, interoperability, and verification requirements for AI and MET Data Link Services systems.

Because of the diversity of AI and MET Data Link Services systems that may bedeveloped, this MASPS does not attempt to define requirements for:

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  Specific data link services other than the WxS Service; e.g., Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) Distribution Service,
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  Technical services defined by organizations such as Open Geospatial Consortium; e.g., Web Feature Services,
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  Information quality, e.g., accuracy of AI or MET inputs,
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  Human factors considerations,
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  Message protocols,
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  Security, or
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  External aircraft systems’ (portable or installed) use of AI or MET information.

While the AI and MET Data Link Services systems described in this document provide the context for subsequent system safety analysis by industry, actual certification and operational approvals will be accomplished by the relevant certification and operational approval authorities, who may use the contents of this MASPS in whole or in part in granting such approvals. Other guidance material may be developed from the performance criteria identified by this MASPS to assist such authorities in the approval process.

Purpose of Document

The purpose of this document is to provide Minimum Aviation System Performance Standards (MASPS) for Aeronautical Information (AI) and Meteorological (MET) Data Link Services systems. It provides guidance on system characteristics and allocation of requirements that support data link services. This guidance material recommends minimum acceptable criteria for authorizing/approving the use of AI and MET Data Link Services systems when authorization/approvals are required to show compliance to civil regulations. This guidance is intended to be useful to designers, manufacturers, installers, service providers, regulators, and users of AI and MET Data Link Services systems.

The requirements contained in this document are necessary to provide adequate assurance that AI and MET Data Link Services systems will function in an acceptable manner. Compliance with this standard is recommended as one means of assuring that AI and MET Data Link Services systems perform satisfactorily under all conditions normally encountered in aeronautical operations.