OnAir Makes In-Flight Connectivity Possible

We have come a long way in terms of air transport. There is no question that leading aviation companies have given us more time for leisure and less for travel throughout the years. But to step up the competition, these companies are also exploring ways on how to give commuters comfort, convenience, and connectivity while up in the air. Who says that you have to be cut off from the rest of the world, 30,000 feet above the ground

Old aviation protocol requires passengers to switch off all electronic devices, particularly mobile phones, during the duration of the flight. But in these modern times, where seamless connectivity is a necessity for travellers, it became apparent that in-flight mobile services should be made possible. To answer to this need, one aviation company introduced, for the first time ever, mobile network and Wi-Fi access thousands of feet above the ground. This groundbreaking technology was created by OnAir, an in-flight connectivity provider. 

The Geneva-based company was founded in 2005, as a product of a joint venture between aircraft manufacturer Airbus and SITA, an air transport industry provider of IT solutions and communications services. Currently, OnAir is the only aviation industry-sponsored provider of in-flight connectivity.

But how did the company make connectivity possible without disrupting the operations of the aircraft? OnAir’s technology is made possible by a tiny picocell antenna which is attached to the plane. This small antenna has the capability of routing both internet and phone signals to a satellite network, which allows for unlimited texting, smartphone usage, and 24 simultaneous voice calls. 

Although early stage glitches have prevented other airlines in adopting the service, OnAir’s in-flight connectivity technology looks promising. In fact, CNBC Magazine recognized them as one of Europe’s Most Creative Companies, despite resistance from European carriers to in-flight mobile services. For now, only Middle Eastern carriers have gladly embraced the service. Asian airlines are about to follow suit.