ABSTRACT
This chapter provides background on the work of the future air navigation system (FANS) Committee and identifies the functional shortcomings of present communication systems, the changes that will form the basis of future communications systems and methods. It reviews the benefits to aviation that could be expected with implementation of these new systems, and discusses both data link techniques and the anticipated aeronautical telecommunication network, as these technologies form the foundation of the Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) communications element. The chapter looks at some of the ways and places where the communication component of CNS/ATM technology is being researched and implemented. Terrestrial or, earthbound communications will continue to be needed because, from an economic viewpoint, it is far easier to maintain service continuity during frequent aircraft movement in terminal areas, with nearby terrestrial system elements than it is with satellites. High frequency communication is the only means available for "over the horizon" contacts.
