Aircraft
FedEx Begins Data Communications Flights at Memphis
A FedEx Express MD-11 takes flight. The cargo carrier started operations with ATC data communications on January 13. (Photo: FedEx)
A FedEx Express MD-11 takes flight. The cargo carrier started operations with ATC data communications on January 13. (Photo: FedEx)

Controllers at Memphis International Airport started sending text messages to FedEx Express pilots in mid-January under the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s Data Communications (data comm) effort to eventually replace voice communications for routine ATC instructions. Testers plan to expand the data comm trial to include United Airlines, FedEx and UPS aircraft at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey this summer.