TriaGnoSys recently presented a live demo of its inflight 3G solution with its onboard communications manager. The demonstration was to leading European airlines, airports, manufacturers, and service providers at the Airbus Cabin Test Centre in Hamburg, Germany, as part of the final stage of the E-Cab project. TriaGnoSys’ 3G services provide a range of passenger and crew communications applications, and the communications manager controls all satellite-based passenger, cabin crew and IFE data communications to and from the aircraft during flights.  

E-Cab (E-enabled Cabin and Associated Logistic for Improved Passenger Services and Operational Efficiency) sought to maximise efficiencies in air transport logistics and improve the passenger experience.  It focused on the development of improved services in four different services areas: moving people through airports, passenger services, freight handling and catering services. Most importantly, E-Cab developed the technology to interconnect all four areas to increase efficiency and thereby reduce costs.

Key to the success of the cabin element of the project included the fact that the solutions developed are all accessible through the IFE system, using any mobile or WiFi device. Real-time credit card authorisation is possible, as is live updating of IFE content using satellite communications. The project partners will now start to commercialize the project developments. To that end, TriaGnoSys has included its 3G solution and WiFi payment portal in its airline product portfolio. The E-Cab partners were: Airbus, ASCOM, B&W, Bucher, Cranfield University, Dansk Teknologi, Dassault, Diehl, EADS, Giunti Labs, IBERlog, Identec Solutions, Jettainer, LAAS, MIL, OnAir, Rheinmettal, Robotiker, Selex, Siemens, SITA, Terma, Thales Avionics, Thales UK, TNO, TriaGnoSys, TZI, Ultra Electronics, and the University of Malta. The project was funded by the European Commission under the 7th framework program.