Abstract: A communication system of voice and data messages between two or more aircraft for managing a flying operation, such as a tanker aircraft and a receiver aircraft during a refueling operation, which can be used in adverse environmental and/or operational conditions. The communication system is implemented by a free space optical data link between both aircraft which is compatible with radio silence conditions since it is not based on radio frequency transmissions and comprises first and a second segments in the first and second aircraft with communication control modules adapted for converting the messages of voice and/or data into electrical signals and vice versa and optical modules adapted for emitting beams of light modulated by said electrical signals and for converting received beams of modulated light into electrical signals.