This document provides guidance for the development of methods to control and manage ASD.

Processes for offloading data from an aircraft are not included, except where utilized by the ASDM processes. Data offloading may be considered in a future supplement.

Management of ASD will have several aspects, including the following:

• Definition of ASD categories 

• Types of support data and software (categorization) 

• Distribution of support data and software

• Activation of support data and software 

•  Control of support data and software 

• Identification 

• Modification

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to establish guidance for Aircraft Support Data Management (ASDM). This guidance is intended for operators (e.g., pilot-incommand, maintenance activities, renter-pilot, or air carrier certificate holder) of transport aircraft. The types of Aircraft Support Data (ASD) are defined in Section 3.0.

COMMENTARY

Because there are established processes and standards in place for aircraft flight system software, i.e., Field Loadable Software (FLS) Management, the differences in terminology and management processes for FLS and ASD are identified in this document where applicable.