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A CPDLC message is shown on a multifunction control and display unit.
Credit: Collins Aerospace
Business jet operators as well as manufacturers like the FAA’s Data Communications (Data Comm) system, which enables controllers to send departure clearances to pilots by text instead of by radio.
The FAA has deployed the capability for text messaging to 62 airport towers and is in the process of rolling it out to 20 air route traffic control centers (ARTCC) that manage high-altitude, enroute traffic. After outfitting three “key” ARTCCs—Washington, Indianapolis and Kansas City—the agency suspended deployment to the enroute centers in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.