Thu, Jul 08, 2004
Company Validates Its Technical Approach, Progresses in Network
Development
AirCell has
successfully completed the initial phase of flight testing for its
next-generation airborne telecommunications link. Average user
speeds were demonstrated at 300 to 500 kilobits per second, with
peak rates up to 2.4 megabits per second. These data transfer rates
are comparable to the speeds seen in the latest generation of
ground-based mobile phones, and are 80-160 times faster than
today's typical airborne telecommunication systems.
The technical validation of AirCell's airborne
telecommunications link marks a significant milestone in the
company's development of a broadband system that will allow
passengers to use their next-generation personal cellular
telephones and other wireless devices aboard aircraft in
flight. Using its proprietary intellectual property and
aeronautical network experience, AirCell plans to deploy a
nationwide network in the continental U.S. in the next 18-24
months.
The initial phase of
flight testing was successfully completed in the Rocky Mountain
West using a specially equipped business jet and a modified,
ground-based cellular station. The testing was conducted on
air-to-ground frequencies under Special Temporary Authorization
(STA) from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Data
uploads and downloads were demonstrated, and the results were
confirmed with the aircraft operating at a variety of altitudes,
airspeeds, and configurations.
AirCell and a number of major U.S. airlines maintain ongoing
dialogue regarding these services and plans for commercial
deployment. Initial testing of AirCell's system aboard scheduled
airlines is targeted to begin early next summer.
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