[SatNews] Another frontier experienced a first...

First 3G operator Azerfon and Azerbaijan Airlines have announced their plans to launch the full range of mobile communications services on 15 AZAL aircraft, 11 Airbus and 4 Boeing. This will be possible as a result of an exclusive agreement with OnAir, the world’s leading inflight connectivity solution provider. The pilot project was announced for the first time in BakuTel2011 Expo. When commercially launched later this year, Azerfon customers will be able to use mobile and data services during flights. These include voice, text and data communications allowing passengers to communicate while on-board with their colleagues, friends and families in the same way they do on the ground.

“Azerfon, being the most innovative and transparent mobile operator, is extremely proud of partnering with OnAir to present the project for mobile connectivity services on AZAL aircraft. Azerfon has a tradition of pioneering innovative telecom solutions in Azerbaijan. For the first time in the telecom history of not only Azerbaijan, but of CIS region as well, we will provide our customers with unique opportunity of staying connected even on air. Our valued customers will be able to call, text and surf the internet using our services. This is another breakthrough for Azerbaijan’s telecom industry, thanks to Azerfon”, said CEO of Azerfon, Mr. Jurgen Peetz.

“As the National Aviation Carrier, AZAL is very pleased to announce the introduction of mobile communication services on our aircraft. We look forward to launching these services in partnership with national operator Azerfon and the leading global inflight connectivity services provider OnAir. This will be the first innovation of its kind in communication and aviation not only in Azerbaijan, but also in the region. Only AZAL’s passengers will be able to use mobile services on board. This new technology is absolutely secure and is approved by the appropriate regulatory authorities.” – said Mr. Jahangir Asgerov, the President of Azerbaijan Airlines Joint Stock Company.

It should be noted that the technical solution for this project is provided by OnAir, the inflight connectivity provider established and owned by SITA (the leading IT solutions provider for air transport) and Airbus (the leading aircraft manufacturer). Today, OnAir has over 35 announced customers worldwide, on five continents, including Aeroflot, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, TAM among others.

Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir, said, “This is an important milestone for OnAir. The expansion of our services to Azerbaijan, and ultimately other CIS countries, further cements our position as the global inflight connectivity services provider, offering the widest geographical reach.”

Customers of Nar Mobile and Azerfon-Vodafone will be able to use these services as soon as the technical tests are completed by Azerfon and AZAL. Mobile communications services including 2.5G internet will be available during the entire flight except for landing and take-off. Roaming charges will apply for such services.