A data communications network for an aircraft includes a first branch for establishing a wireless data connection to a first group of end devices, a primary control unit connected to the first branch, and a backup control unit connected to the first branch. The primary control unit is configured for data transmission to and from the first group of end devices via the first branch. The backup control unit is configured for detecting an operating state of the primary control unit and for taking over data transmission to and from the first group of end devices via the first branch from the primary control unit in case of a failure of the primary control unit.