Datalink Telecom Terminology

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COMMONLY USED TERMS IN DATALINK TELECOMMUNICATION

- Richie Lengel

RELEVANT DISCUSSION: AC 20-140C, AC 90-117, AIM 4-5-10

1. Satcom

Satellite communication system — Aeronautical mobile satellite service developed as a primary communications link for remote areas and oceanic airspace. Satcom supports voice and data transmissions but is sometimes prone to long transfer delays.

2. ACARS

Airborne communications addressing and reporting system — Air/ground datalink is the standard for ACARS, which has been in use by the airlines for decades. ACARS is used to track aircraft and aircrew flight and block times, cockpit-to-dispatcher digital communications, weather, weight and balance, performance data and so on. ACARS is increasingly being replaced by satcom.

3. FANS 1/A (Future Air Navigation System 1/A)

A NextGen component designed to reduce verbal communication between pilots and ATC because frequency congestion and heavy accents often hinder clear communication. FANS is designed to automate communication among ATC and air/surface traffc. It opens a digital datalink between a pilot and ATC for clearance and position reporting. It’s also referred to as ADS-C (automatic dependent surveillance-contract), and by January 30, 2020, all operations above FL 290 in the entire North Atlantic region will require RNP 10 and FANS 1/A capability.

4. Aireon