Investigation of the three competing VHF digital data link communications technology for commercial aviation

The purpose of this study was to analyze digital data link communications technologies in a line-of-sight environment. Because there is a global debate over selecting the next generation VHF data link (VDL) technology, this paper evaluates each of them for the terminal and enroute airspace only. First, this study provides an historical review of the purpose of data link applications. Second, it considers how the current system is failing to meet today's requirements leading to problems within the US National Air Space (NAS). Third, a technical and economic analysis of VDL Technologies is presented. Lastly, a recommendation is given for selecting a VDL technology.