Taking air-to-ground communications to the next level

The skies are getting busier, packed with next-gen, data-intensive aircraft, and an airline’s reliance on digital communications networks to allow pilots and air traffic controllers to exchange information and data reliably and securely continues unabated. Essential for delivering the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and performance, the Datalink air-to-ground communications system is among aviation’s most critical infrastructure.

With over 2,500 of SITA’s radio stations already managing half of the world’s aircraft communication traffic, SITA is constantly upgrading its critical infrastructure and networks to handle the surge in real-time data between aircraft, airports and air traffic control organizations over the world.

Smarter comms, safer flights

The modernization of our proven network continues to support the aviation industry’s drive for growth with safer, smarter and more collaborative communications between the cockpit, ground dispatch and control towers. This upgrade of SITA’s Very High Frequency (VHF) and VHF Digital Link Mode 2 (VDLM2) radio network will result in more ground station infrastructure, smarter digital systems that reduce reliance on traditional voice communication, and additional, multiple frequencies to boost capacity and performance.

European skies will handle some 50,000 daily flights during peak periods by 2030*. Our investments in Europe will drive an increased capacity and redundancy to support expanding digital air traffic control operations. In parallel, our India’s radio network coverage is being doubled to match its fast-growing aviation industry. And across Latin America, especially Brazil, the network is set to be modernized by integrating the latest equipment and upgraded infrastructure.

Future-proofed network

To understand the need for this capacity upgrade, we only need to look at the increase in the volume of communication messaging between air traffic control and pilots – known as controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC). Last month’s (April) demand for capacity was already higher than during the peak summer months of 2024! 

So as our industry confronts an ever more connected, data-driven world, our enhancements to the industry’s communications backbone is bringing significant improvements for airlines in performance tracking and operational efficiency. Our reliable network delivers real-time communications for air traffic services, and automatic alerts to prevent disruptions - boosting reliability, performance and helping meet sustainability targets.

Looking even further ahead, the network upgrade additionally paves the way for data-intensive communications with emerging transport technologies, including drones and air taxis. We are providing the tools that our industry needs both now and well into the future. This will involve a hyperconnected ATM system that integrates both existing networks and future technologies. By working with our partners and customers, and by continuing our investment to adopted new technologies, we will continue to evolve the management of air traffic communications for future generations of air travel.

*Source: Eurocontrol