8.3 Long distance Operational Control (LDOC)
If dispatch needs to contact the flight, they will call the appropriate radio relay or ATC facility and advise them to relay a message to the flight, or request the flight to contact dispatch through a phone patch with an LDOC provider if the facility does not have phone patch capability (i.e., Arctic radio). Available LDOC facilities include Arctic Radio, Cedar Rapids, San Francisco, Iceland Radio, Rainbow Radio, Houston Radio, Stockholm Radio, or Speedbird London. For HF frequencies, refer to the Communication boxes on the Jeppesen Polar Orientation Chart. On initial call to an LDOC station, advise them of the flight’s approximate position. Once communications have been established, obtain the optimum frequencies and a SELCAL check. Generally, ARINC LDOC frequencies are not actively monitored unless a call is requested. To establish LDOC communications with an ARINC station call on a GP frequency and request an LDOC frequency. LDOC frequency’s are usually preceded by an asterisk (*) and are generally reserved for operational control issues. GP frequencies are generally reserved for ATC purposes.

Depending HF signal propagation characteristics, communications with a HF operator may be difficult above 80 N. However, other options are available. Arctic Radio (the GDP operator that has been handling your ATC messages between the aircraft and dispatch, satisfying the company communication requirement.