[SatNews] This new connectivity solution is lightweight and fits right in...

With inflight connectivity now commonplace on business and VIP aircraft, OnAir and TriaGnoSys have launched the most lightweight and complete turnkey solution for business jets. It enables passengers to use their mobile devices and laptops for calls, text messages, emailing and Internet browsing, as they do on the ground. OnAir is the telecoms services provider, with TriaGnoSys providing the hardware and software elements for both the aircraft and the ground. Importantly, the airborne equipment consists of two small, lightweight units that connect to the aircraft's existing satellite communications system.

Mobile phone usage is treated in the same way as international roaming, meaning all costs are charged by the passenger's mobile operator in their regular bill. Therefore, the aircraft operator is not responsible for the administration of accounting for the costs. The service works in exactly the same way as international roaming, with the charges included by each individual passenger's mobile operator in their regular mobile phone bill. That simplicity makes it convenient for both passengers and aircraft operators. The first commercial deployment will be over the Inmarsat SwiftBroadband service, but the solution can operate over any IP backhaul communications link. OnAir and TriaGnoSys already work together to provide inflight connectivity for commercial airlines and maritime communications.