This Sources Sought opportunity from Department Of Transportation was posted on October 22, 2026. The submission period has ended. Browse the details below for market research, or find similar active opportunities.
Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS) Market Survey 2
Contract Overview
Solicitation details, issuing organization, response deadlines, documents, and interested companies for this government contract opportunity.
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AI Contract Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration is conducting a market survey under solicitation number 693KA8-26-R-DDLS2 to inform the future acquisition of Domestic Datalink Services (DDLS). This initiative aims to replace the current Data Communication Integrated Services (DCIS) contract, which expires on September 30, 2029. The FAA is exploring the establishment of one or more 10-year contracts to provide Controller to Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) services across 65 airports and all 20 Continental United States Centers. The primary objective is to ensure reliable end-to-end performance, low latency, and high uplink success rates using the VDL-2 protocol and FANS-equipped aircraft, while integrating with the En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) and Tower Data Link systems. The scope of the survey focuses on the Data Communications Network Service (DCNS), emphasizing operational network services, real-time monitoring, and a risk-minimized transition from the legacy DCIS system. The FAA is seeking industry insights on acquisition design, performance incentives, and the introduction of new technologies. Interested parties must submit responses in searchable PDF format to the contracting officer, Pearl Winston, by September 9, 2026. Following this market research phase, the FAA plans to hold an Industry Day and expects to release a Screening Information Request for DDLS requirements in the second quarter of FY2029.
General Info
Place of Performance
Washington, DC, 20591, USASet-Aside
Timeline
Submission Closed
Organization & Contact Information
Full Description
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 services and associated monitoring, referred to as Data Communications Network Service (DCNS) under the current contract.
Industry Participation: The FAA invites responses from interested parties with capabilities or interest in providing CPDLC services. Respondents are encouraged to share insights on acquisition design, operations, technical topics, and transition strategies from DCIS to DDLS. Key areas of interest include incentivizing performance, introducing new technologies, ensuring accurate monitoring, addressing technical and operational challenges, and facilitating seamless transitions.
Response Guidelines: Interested parties must submit written responses in English, formatted as searchable PDFs, with "DDLS FY2026 Market Survey Response [Company Name]" in the subject line. Proprietary or confidential information should be clearly marked, and submissions should include contact details. Responses are due by September 9, 2026, and questions about the survey should be submitted by August 18, 2026.
Future Activities: The FAA plans to conduct an Industry Day in late summer or early fall, providing opportunities for one-on-one sessions with interested parties. A Screening Information Request (SIR) for DDLS requirements is anticipated for release in the second quarter of FY2029.
This market survey represents an opportunity for industry stakeholders to contribute to the shaping of future CPDLC services and to engage with the FAA in preparation for upcoming acquisition processes.
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