In a first embodiment, the method includes, but is not limited to receiving a first instruction from a first party who is associated with control of the aircraft, to transmit an initial non-verbal communication to a second party who is associated with control of the aircraft. The method further includes transmitting the initial non-verbal communication to the second party over the digital communication link. The method further includes receiving a second instruction from the second party to transmit a non-verbal response to the initial non-verbal communication. The method still further includes transmitting the non-verbal response to the first party over the digital communication link. Either the initial non-verbal communication or the non-verbal response includes data that can be used to derive a text message and a graphic image, and wherein the graphic image includes information that is available to only one of the first party and the second party.