Abstract: A computer implemented method and computer program product for pro-active message acknowledgment collection for improved data link performance over reliable transport media in a satellite-based global telecommunications network includes sending a message over reliable transport media in a satellite-based global telecommunications network and pro-actively collecting a message receipt acknowledgement. In an aspect of the embodiment, the method can further include pro-actively collecting the message receipt acknowledgement after a message alert notification has not been received. In another aspect of the embodiment, the method can further include pro-actively collecting the message receipt acknowledgement a single time. In yet another aspect of the embodiment, the method can include setting a message alert timeout counter timer.

Abstract: A computer implemented method and computer program product for improved data link performance over reliable transport media in a satellite-based global telecommunications network (e.g., Short Burst Data (SBD) transaction network) to reduce downlink latency includes sending a message over reliable transport media in the satellite-based global telecommunications network, polling for a response to the sent message and receiving the response to the sent message. In an aspect of the embodiment, the method can further include polling when a message alert notification is not received. In another aspect of the embodiment, the method can further include polling a single time. In yet another aspect of the embodiment, the method can include polling when a message alert timeout counter elapses.

Abstract: A transponder lock provides allows an aircraft transponder to continue transmitting an alerting code for the duration of an emergency. The transponder lock thereby enables the aircraft transponder to continue to provide crucial information to ground tracking stations. Installation of the transponder lock results in very little aircraft downtime because the transponder lock connects in-line with existing aircraft wiring.