[fiftymegaton]

But the VHF or HF is needed for verbal communication with the ATC tower, is that correct?

[ltc8k6]

You tell the ACARS system not to use them.

That would be more accurate.

[Mark17]

But the VHF or HF is needed for verbal communication with the ATC tower, is that correct?

I was a USAF air traffic controller for 20 years. Towers only control the airport, to about 10 miles. Beyond that, to about 40 to 50 miles, the terminal radar control facility (TRACON, USAF-RAPCON) controls the aircraft. Beyond that, enroute facilities take over. VHF/UHF radios are used. In the past, I believe HF was used over water, but I would suspect that is a thing of the past, with today's sophisticated communications capabilities. Aircraft do not communicate with towers, except within the airport traffic area (10 or so miles) I hope that helps a little.