Controller-pilot data links were well on their way in the U.S. in 2002.

WSJ: Texting While Flying: Help for Pilots

Europe also has controller-pilot text messaging in use at two air-traffic control centers, and should have its system fully implemented by 2015.

WSJ: Texting While Flying: Help for Pilots

Canadian authorities say 50% of the planes flying in the eastern part of the country can make use of Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications.

WSJ: Texting While Flying: Help for Pilots

The pilot and air traffic controller discussed options, including landing at Teterboro airport in New Jersey, the official said.

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It does not mean leaving pilots completely free to steer their own course like car drivers, but it does transfer more responsibility for plotting a route and following it to the pilot, with the ground controller keeping an eye on things.

ECONOMIST: Clearing the skies | The

Colored squares on the data tags for airplanes on the controller's radar screen change as pilots respond so that controllers get an extra visual cue in case a pilot doesn't see a message.

WSJ: Texting While Flying: Help for Pilots

The fliers are ultimately told there are no friendly forces in the area - although the ground controller admits he does not know as much about the situation as he would like, and at least one pilot spots orange panels on the British forces which should identify them as friendly.

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