ATC
FAA Set To Expand Data Comm System
After a two-year test period, the text-based cockpit communication system will serve more than 50 U.S. airports by the end of next year.
Newark-based air traffic controller Ray Adams demonstrates the data comm procedures in the airport’s control tower during a media event. (Photo: Curt Epstein)
Newark-based air traffic controller Ray Adams demonstrates the data comm procedures in the airport’s control tower during a media event. (Photo: Curt Epstein)

After more than two years of successful testing at Newark and Memphis International Airports, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration plans to expand its Data Comm text-based ATC-cockpit communication system to another 50 airports by the end of next year.