CQUniversity Unit Profile
ENTA13021 Aircraft Communication Systems
Aircraft Communication Systems
All details in this unit profile for ENTA13021 have been officially approved by CQUniversity and represent a learning partnership between the University and you (our student).
The information will not be changed unless absolutely necessary and any change will be clearly indicated by an approved correction included in the profile.
General Information

Overview

Communication systems are an essential component of modern manned and unmanned aircraft. In this unit, you will learn about the advanced communication technologies and networks used in the aviation industry. You will study the communication technologies, standards and protocols that form the backbone of all modern communication systems and various techniques to analyse and design simple communication networks to meet real-world requirements. You will study the various communication technologies and equipment used in modern aircraft and mechanisms that are utilised to enable high-speed communications between aircraft, ground stations and satellites.

Details

Career Level: Undergraduate
Unit Level: Level 3
Credit Points: 6
Student Contribution Band: 8
Fraction of Full-Time Student Load: 0.125

Pre-requisites or Co-requisites

Prerequisite: Automatic Flight Control and Communication Systems

Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).

Offerings For Term 1 - 2025

Online
Rockhampton

Attendance Requirements

All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes - in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).

Class and Assessment Overview

Recommended Student Time Commitment

Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.

Class Timetable

Bundaberg, Cairns, Emerald, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville
Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Assessment Overview

1. Online Quiz(zes)
Weighting: 20%
2. Written Assessment
Weighting: 30%
3. Report
Weighting: 50%

Assessment Grading

This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.

Previous Student Feedback
Unit Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
  1. Explain the operation of modern aircraft data communications network devices, data links and systems
  2. Apply mathematical analytical techniques to calculate capacity requirements of aircraft communication networks
  3. Design antennas to meet given aviation communication requirements
  4. Design simple aircraft communication networks using appropriate tools
  5. Evaluate communication technologies, standards, and protocols to satisfy aviation communication requirements
  6. Create professional documentation of the solutions, designs and analysis process using electrical terminology, diagrams and symbols that conform to relevant standards.
Alignment of Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Graduate Attributes
N/A Level
Introductory Level
Intermediate Level
Graduate Level
Professional Level
Advanced Level

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes

Assessment Tasks Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 30%
3 - Report - 50%

Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes

Graduate Attributes Learning Outcomes
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 - Communication
2 - Problem Solving
3 - Critical Thinking
4 - Information Literacy
5 - Team Work
6 - Information Technology Competence
7 - Cross Cultural Competence
8 - Ethical practice
9 - Social Innovation
10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures

Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes

Assessment Tasks Graduate Attributes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20%
2 - Written Assessment - 30%
3 - Report - 50%
Textbooks and Resources

Textbooks

Prescribed

Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems

Edition: 3rd (2024)
Authors: Mike Tooley and David Wyatt
Routledge
New York New York , New York , U.S.A.
ISBN: 978-1-003-41193-2

The textbook is available in both print and electronic formats. Students can purchase the textbook online from the publisher's website. 

The textbook is available in both print and electronic formats. Students can purchase the textbook online from the publisher's website. 

Supplementary

EASA B1-11f Aeroplane Systems - Instruments and Avionics 2024 Update

Edition: N/A (2024)
Authors: Aviation Australia
Aviation Australia
ISBN: N/A
Supplementary

EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Edition: N/A (2024)
Authors: Aviation Australia
Aviation Australia
ISBN: N/A

IT Resources

You will need access to the following IT resources:
  • CQUniversity Student Email
  • Internet
  • Unit Website (Moodle)
  • PDF reader
  • Matlab
  • Pdf creator/scanner
  • Microsft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Video conferencing (Zoom) or Teams
Referencing Style

All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: Harvard (author-date)

For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.

Teaching Contacts
Lam Bui Unit Coordinator
l.bui@cqu.edu.au
Schedule
Week 1 Begin Date: 10 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Introduction

Chapter

Chapter 1 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Avionic Systems: Communication (11.5.2.2) of EASA B1-11f Aeroplane Systems - Instruments and Avionics 2024 Update

Radio Wave Propagation (13.4.1.1.1) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 2 Begin Date: 17 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Transmitters

Chapter

Chapter 3 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Transmitter Fundamentals (13.4.1.1.6) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 3 Begin Date: 24 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Receivers

Chapter

Chapter 3 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Receiver Fundamentals (13.4.1.1.5) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 4 Begin Date: 31 Mar 2025

Module/Topic

Transmission line

Chapter

Chapter 2 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Transmission Lines I and II (13.4.1.1.3) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Online Quiz 1 Due: Week 4, Friday at 23:59 AEST (covering materials for Weeks 1-3)

Week 5 Begin Date: 07 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Antennas

Chapter

Chapter 2 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Antennas (13.4.1.1.2) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Vacation Week Begin Date: 14 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 6 Begin Date: 21 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

VHF Communication

Chapter

Chapter 4 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Very High Frequency Communication (13.4.1.2) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 7 Begin Date: 28 Apr 2025

Module/Topic

HF Communication

Chapter

Chapter 5 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

High Frequency (HF) Communication (13.4.1.3) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Online Quiz 2 Due: Week 7, Friday at 23:59 AEST (covering materials for Weeks 4-6)


Written Assignment Due: Week 7 Monday (28 Apr 2025) 11:59 pm AEST
Week 8 Begin Date: 05 May 2025

Module/Topic

Satellite communications

Chapter

Satellite Communications (SATCOM) (13.4.1.4) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 9 Begin Date: 12 May 2025

Module/Topic

Data Link Communications

Chapter

Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (13.4.1.5) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Data Link and Two Way Data Link (13.4.1.17) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

ARINC Communication and Reporting (13.4.2.7) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 10 Begin Date: 19 May 2025

Module/Topic

Audio Systems

Chapter

Chapter 6 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Audio Systems (13.4.1.6) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Online Quiz 3 Due: Week 10, Friday at 23:59 AEST (covering materials for Weeks 7-9)

Week 11 Begin Date: 26 May 2025

Module/Topic

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

Chapter

Chapter 21 of Aircraft Communications and Navigation Systems, 3rd Edition

Events and Submissions/Topic

Week 12 Begin Date: 02 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Aircraft Communication System Maintenance

Chapter

Communication (13.4.1.1.4) of EASA B2-13d Aircraft Systems - Communications 2024 Update

Events and Submissions/Topic

Review/Exam Week Begin Date: 09 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Online Quiz 4 Due: Week 13 (Review/Exam Week), Friday at 23:59 AEST (covering materials for Weeks 10-12)

Exam Week Begin Date: 16 Jun 2025

Module/Topic

Chapter

Events and Submissions/Topic

Design Assignment Due: Exam Week Monday (16 June 2025) 11:59 pm AEST
Term Specific Information

Textbook:

  • The prescribed textbook for this unit is available as an online e-book in the CQUniversity library. Students should check with the library for any limitations on the number of concurrent readers.
  • As part of their weekly learning activities, students are expected to read relevant sections of the textbook and the suggested EASA B1 and B2 documents from Aviation Australia. Reliable access to these reading resources is essential for unit learning throughout the term.

Assessment Tasks

1 Online Quiz(zes)

Assessment Title
Online Quizzes

Task Description

Four online quizzes assess students' understanding of concepts from the three weeks leading up to each quiz.

  • Each quiz consists of multiple-choice and short-calculation questions.
  • There is no time limit, and multiple attempts are allowed.
  • Each attempt presents different questions randomly selected from a question bank.
  • The final quiz mark is the average of all attempts. 
  • Students can improve their score by performing better in subsequent attempts.
  • Quizzes remain open for two weeks, and all attempts must be completed within this period.
  • Reviewing relevant materials before attempting the quiz is strongly recommended.
  • The four quizzes contribute 20% to the final unit mark.
  • Quiz due dates: Fridays of Weeks 4, 7, 10, and 13 (review/exam week).

If you experience issues with the online quizzes, notify the unit coordinator as soon as possible.


Number of Quizzes

4


Frequency of Quizzes

Other


Assessment Due Date

Students must complete the quiz by its due date, i.e., Friday of the relevant week, as specified in the teaching schedule and assessment information. Refer to the quiz for specific instructions and submission deadlines.


Return Date to Students

Quiz result and feedback will be available to students after the quiz is closed.


Weighting
20%

Assessment Criteria

Correct numerical answer or selection of the best answer among the available multiple-choice options.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Students must complete the quiz online in Moodle, following the instructions provided while the quiz is open.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Explain the operation of modern aircraft data communications network devices, data links and systems
  • Apply mathematical analytical techniques to calculate capacity requirements of aircraft communication networks


Graduate Attributes
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking

2 Written Assessment

Assessment Title
Written Assignment

Task Description

This assessment item covers the material topics of weeks 1-5. The assignment questions will be released on the unit website at least 3 weeks before the assignment submission due date. It is not expected that students will type up equations and calculations. Students can scan clear and legible handwritten calculations for online submission as a PDF report.


Assessment Due Date

Week 7 Monday (28 Apr 2025) 11:59 pm AEST

Submit a single PDF assignment report file.


Return Date to Students

Week 9 Monday (12 May 2025)

Mark and feedback for the assignment will be provided within two weeks of the submission date.


Weighting
30%

Minimum mark or grade
50%

Assessment Criteria

The assignment will be graded based on the following criteria:

  1. Accuracy of answers.
  2. Proper formatting.
  3. All workings must be shown to receive marks.
  4. The report must be neat, tidy, and legible.
  5. All questions must be attempted.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Submit a single PDF assignment report file.

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Explain the operation of modern aircraft data communications network devices, data links and systems
  • Apply mathematical analytical techniques to calculate capacity requirements of aircraft communication networks
  • Design antennas to meet given aviation communication requirements
  • Evaluate communication technologies, standards, and protocols to satisfy aviation communication requirements
  • Create professional documentation of the solutions, designs and analysis process using electrical terminology, diagrams and symbols that conform to relevant standards.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Information Technology Competence

3 Report

Assessment Title
Design Assignment

Task Description

In this assessment, students will design a simple aircraft communication system that meets specified requirements. The task involves conducting a conceptual design and analysis, considering key aspects such as requirement analysis, technology selection, and practical implementation considerations.

Assessment Requirements:
Students are required to:

  1. Analyse System Requirements – Identify and define the key functional and operational requirements for an aircraft communication system.
  2. Select Suitable Technologies – Research and justify the selection of appropriate communication technologies (e.g., VHF, HF, SATCOM) based on system requirements, operational environment, and industry standards.
  3. Address Practical Considerations – Discuss factors such as signal interference, bandwidth limitations, reliability, regulatory compliance, and integration with other aircraft systems.
  4. Develop a Conceptual System Design – Present a high-level system architecture, including key components (transmitters, receivers, antennas, and protocols).
  5. Prepare a Detailed Report – Compile findings into a professional report that includes requirement analysis, selected technology, design rationale, and practical considerations.

Submission Requirements:

  • A well-structured report detailing the design process, technology choices, and justifications.
  • Clear diagrams illustrating system architecture and key components.
  • Proper citations and references following CQUniversity's referencing guides.

This assessment evaluates students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world aviation communication challenges while considering technical and practical constraints.


Assessment Due Date

Exam Week Monday (16 June 2025) 11:59 pm AEST

Submit a single PDF design report


Return Date to Students

Mark and feedback for the design report will be provided to students after the grade moderation day.


Weighting
50%

Minimum mark or grade
50%

Assessment Criteria

1. Requirement Analysis

  • Clearly identifies and defines the key functional and operational requirements.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of communication needs in aviation.
  • Considers industry standards and regulatory requirements.

2. Technology Selection

  • Researches and selects appropriate communication technologies (e.g., VHF, HF, SATCOM).
  • Justifies the selection based on system requirements and operational environment.
  • Considers advantages, limitations, and practical applications of the chosen technology.

3. Practical Considerations

  • Addresses key factors such as signal interference, bandwidth limitations, and system reliability.
  • Discusses integration with other aircraft systems and regulatory compliance.
  • Evaluates potential challenges and proposes solutions.

4. Conceptual System Design

  • Presents a logical and structured system architecture.
  • Clearly illustrates key components (transmitters, receivers, antennas, and protocols).
  • Ensures the design meets specified requirements effectively.

5. Reflection on the Learning Experience

  • Provides a thoughtful reflection on the learning gained through the design assignment.
  • Discusses challenges faced during the design process and how they were overcome.
  • Suggests possible improvements for the assessment task to enhance learning experiences.

6. Report Quality and Presentation

  • Provides a well-structured, clear, and professional report.
  • Includes relevant diagrams, tables, and references.
  • Uses proper citations and follows CQUniversity's referencing guidelines.


Referencing Style

Submission
Online

Submission Instructions
Submit a single PDF design report

Learning Outcomes Assessed
  • Design antennas to meet given aviation communication requirements
  • Design simple aircraft communication networks using appropriate tools
  • Evaluate communication technologies, standards, and protocols to satisfy aviation communication requirements
  • Create professional documentation of the solutions, designs and analysis process using electrical terminology, diagrams and symbols that conform to relevant standards.


Graduate Attributes
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Information Literacy
  • Information Technology Competence
  • Cross Cultural Competence

Academic Integrity Statement

As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.

Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.

When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.

Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.

As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.

What is a breach of academic integrity?

A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.

Why is academic integrity important?

A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.

Where can I get assistance?

For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.

What can you do to act with integrity?