Definition
A method of exchanging information between aircraft and ground facilities by sending digital text messages over a radio or satellite network instead of speaking over a voice radio frequency. Pilots receive and send messages through a cockpit display, and ATC or other ground systems do the same on their end.
Plain English
Talking to ATC or getting information by sending and receiving short text messages through the aircraft's equipment, instead of using voice over the radio.
Context Anchor
Seen when using Digital Automatic Terminal Information Service to receive airport information in the cockpit without listening to the voice broadcast.
Derivation
Data link' simply means a connection (link) used to send digital information (data) between two points. The term entered aviation as digital messaging began replacing some voice radio tasks.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces radio congestion and workload by delivering information such as weather and clearances automatically.
Analogy
It is like receiving a text message instead of making a phone call: the information arrives in written form, and you can look back at it if needed.
Intuition Check
Do not read “communications” here as only voice radio. In this context, data link communications means digital information sent over an electronic link, usually shown as text or data in the cockpit.
Example Sentence 1
Before departure, the crew received their clearance through data link communications rather than calling clearance delivery on the radio.
Example Sentence 2
Aircraft equipped for data link communications can receive digital clearances without voice contact.