data link ATIS (DATIS)

One of the two types of automatic terminal information services—DATIS is provided via data links, whereas voice-ATIS is a continuous and repeated broadcast. ATIS is the continuous broadcast of recorded noncontrol information in selected high-activity terminal areas. Its purpose is to improve controller effectiveness and to relieve frequency congestion by automating the repetitive transmission of essential but routine information. The ATIS information includes the time of the latest weather sequence, ceiling, visibility, obstructions to visibility, temperature, dew point (if available), wind direction and velocity, altimeter setting and other pertinent remarks, instrument runway, and runway in use. The ceiling/sky conditions, visibility, and obstructions to visibility may be omitted provided the ceiling is above 5000 ft and visibility is more than 5 mi. The departure runway is given only if it is different from the landing runway, except at those locations that have separate ATIS for departure. The broadcast may also include the appropriate frequency and instructions for VFR (visual flight rules) arrivals to make initial contact with approach control.