April/May 2008

Using mobile phones and accessing the Internet on UK-registered aircraft could be a reality within months. The development follows an announcement by Ofcom that it is to enable airlines to offer mobile communication services.

Technically, licences will be granted to airlines as an addition to existing Wireless Telegraphy licences, which already apply to all aircraft for navigation and air-to-ground communication radio systems.

The granting of a licence will depend on the underlying airborne system holding airworthiness certification from the European Aviation Safety Authority.

Many other regulatory bodies in Europe and overseas have granted similar approval, and some airlines already offer in-flight mobile communications. However, until now foreign-registered aircraft have not been able to use UK-based systems when overflying the UK.

OnAir, the supplier owned jointly by Airbus and SITA, says it is delighted with the decision. It already has customers such as Air France and TAP, and has just won a contract to supply its system to Oman Air. It says UK-based airlines such as bmi and Ryanair could be offering in-flight communications 'as soon as possible'.

Its service allows travellers to use mobile phones and BlackBerry-type devices to send and receive text messages and emails (including attachments), and to make and receive mobile phone calls. It will allow unlimited text messages and emails to be received and sent, and will allow up to 12 simultaneous voice calls.

Air crews can override the system, for instance in emergency or during quiet times.

* Thales has appointed TriaGnoSys to supply a new in-flight broadband Internet connectivity solution specifically designed for the business and regional jet markets. TriaGnoSys, an aviation satellite communications specialist, says it will provide the satellite communications management and billing processes to make in-flight Internet connectivity an economically viable option for smaller aircraft.