A new Inmarsat-supported aircraft telemedicine system allows doctors on the ground to treat passengers taken ill in flight. The Tempus IC system, from U.K.-based telemedicine company RDT, is designed to obtain detailed medical data - including pulse, blood pressure and heart rhythms. It then passes it promptly via Inmarsat or another suitable link to medical experts.

The data allows doctors on the ground to diagnose the patient's condition and advise the crew on immediate treatment, and whether or not a diversion is necessary. The system was unveiled to business jet operators at this month's National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) show in Orlando, Florida. RDT says it already has more than 100 orders for Tempus IC from two airlines, as well as private aircraft operators and other customers. The system is smaller, lighter and more robust than the first-generation Tempus 2000. The medical data-gathering facilities are combined with real-time voice and video communications in a water-resistant unit about the size of a desk telephone. Imagery can be streamed over Inmarsat with the help of the latest H264 video compression technology, while the aircraft's crew talk to the ground using wired or wireless headsets. Built-in GPS also provides accurate aircraft position information.