[SatNews] ...users increased by more than 25 percent in 2013 over 2012, with an excess of 50 million emails sent...

Airbus Defence and Space, the global provider of satellite enabled solutions, reached a fresh record for its dedicated SkyFile Mail software in 2013, with more than 50 million emails sent by some 40,000 mariners worldwide – a 25 percent growth in email volume over the previous year.

SkyFile Mail is an intuitive email solution for business and crew working for some of the world’s largest shipping companies. It is a leading messaging application optimised for satcom and the perfect partner for Pharostar, Sealink and WaveCall VSAT services from Airbus Defence and Space.

The increased use of SkyFile in 2013 was similar for both VSAT and MSS, reflecting the ease of migration to SkyFile from other email platforms and from L-band satcom, as users do not need to be retrained when a vessel upgrades its satcom from MSS to VSAT.

SkyFile optimises bandwidth efficiency on board through sophisticated data compression, which further reduces the size of emails sent. The remaining VSAT bandwidth can be put to use for other operational or crew applications. Further efficiencies come from enhanced remote management features.

“Owners and operators looking to change to our dedicated maritime email solution can keep their existing email addresses and be confident in SkyFile’s ability to enhance their email communications regardless of the satcom band they use,” said Tore Morten Olsen, Head of maritime activities at Airbus Defence and Space.

SkyFile Anti-Virus also saw growth, with the amount of licences in operation nearly doubling throughout 2013. New over-the-air updates attracted more users, who recognise that up-to-date anti-virus software is important for security and efficiency.

“SkyFile Mail is part of a unique family of satellite optimized data applications that will continue to grow with some exciting developments already in the pipeline,” Tore Morten Olsen said.