Clear Traffic instructions sent in a pre-formated text message avoid the need for repetition, and reduce

communication errors such as simultaneous transmissions and misheard isntructions and requests. The
messages are delivered in near – real time, and with higher reliability than voice transmissions. Datalink
has reduced airspace congestion, and many people think it has helped to make communication fast and
safe.

However, datalink also has its drawbacks. It allows ‘free text’ messages, so that the crew can use their
own words to deal with non – routine events. However, even when the pilot writes the message
carefully, controllers sometimes do not understand the message, as they may not use the same words
and abbreviations, especially when they do not speak the same language. Using text also increases the
crew’s workload – in an emergancy situations, they cannot afford the heads – down time reguired to
read and write messages. Another drawback is that when datalink message get out of sequence. Pilot do
not have the time to match messages to respons. Finally, in a mixed voice – data environment. The
screw’s attention is devided, making it easier to miss a voice call.

There can be no doubt that datalink has an important place in the future od civil aviation
communications. But when we need of communicate beyond simple routine messages – for example, in
an emergency – there is no substitute for talking