Definition
DO-280B and ED-110B are paired industry standards that define the technical requirements for the air-ground data link used in Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). DO-280B is published by RTCA in the United States and ED-110B is the matching document published by EUROCAE in Europe; the two are written to be functionally equivalent so that CPDLC-equipped aircraft and ground systems work together across regions.
Plain English
These are the rulebooks that say how text-message communication between pilots and air traffic controllers must work. One version is American (DO-280B), the other European (ED-110B), and they match each other so the same equipment works on both sides of the Atlantic.
Context Anchor
Seen in avionics approval, equipment capability, and data communication discussions; it is a standards reference, not a procedure a pilot flies.
Derivation
DO- documents are issued by RTCA (a U.S. standards body for aviation electronics). ED- documents are issued by EUROCAE (its European counterpart). The 'B' indicates the second major revision. The paired numbering convention means a given DO-xxx and ED-yyy describe the same technical standard agreed jointly.
Why Pilots Care
Aircraft data link equipment must meet this standard to use certain controller-pilot data link services without compatibility problems.
Intuition Check
Do not read DO-280B/ED-110B as an RNAV route, cockpit mode, or navigation procedure. It is a document reference for equipment and system compatibility.
Example Sentence 1
The operator upgraded the avionics suite to meet DO-280B/ED-110B so the fleet could use CPDLC on North Atlantic tracks.
Example Sentence 2
Controllers confirmed the aircraft met DO-280B/ED-110B requirements before issuing a data link clearance.