THE CONNECTIVITY ECOSYSTEM

The Networks Service Providers

Business aviation connectivity relies on the availability of communication networks covering the geographic area of operation. There are two types of networks used in aviation: Communications Satellitebased network (SATCOM) and ground stationsbased network called Air-To-Ground (ATG).

Aircraft Hardware

A large offering of cabin connectivity hardware is available in the market for either line-fit installation by the aircraft manufacturer or as a retrofit by MRO centers. The hardware can be divided into three main sub-systems, the antenna system including the radome and steering electronics, the avionics transceivers allowing for data reception and transmission to the antenna, and the cabin subsystem allowing for laptops, tablets, and smartphones to connect to the cabin network.

Most communication networks rely on business aviation dedicated service providers. These service providers offer tailored plans typically on a monthly subscription basis, as well as 24/7 technical support, billing, and value-added services to help manage usage and optimize bandwidth. These added-value services usually include: WIFI Call & Text apps, Acceleration and compression technology, Ground to Air Call service

VENDORS & INSTALLATION

Cabin Connectivity installation is available from either the aircraft manufacturer for installation prior to aircraft delivery (Line-fit) or from a network of sales and installation providers in the after-market (Retrofit). These installation centers develop and install aircraft connectivity hardware through Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).

In opposition to the Line-fit market where the offering is very limited by the aircraft manufacturer, the retrofit market offers a large choice of solutions and should be considered even for newly delivered aircraft.