CHENNAI: Though a two-way data communication system called Controller Pilot Datalink Communication (CPDLC) for exchanging text messages between pilots and controllers are available, majority of the narrow-body planes, especially those of Indian carriers that fly the international route over the Bay of Bengal, do not have the facility installed. Around 44% of the traffic on the route comprises A320 or B737-800 narrow-body aircraft.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) has made its air traffic control unit in Chennai capable of using CPDLC system by which text messages can be exchanged using satellite link when the planes fly over areas where VHF and HF communication is erratic. This is part of the plan to track the aircraft effectively over the sea, where weather is turbulent, and radar coverage and voice communication are poor.
Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B), implemented to track the planes via satellites, also does not allow pilots to communicate with the air traffic control.
