Inflight Internet 101
The Decision
to Equip Your
Aircraft is The
Easy Part. We
can help with
The Rest.
Deciding which Internet system is right for you requires a bit more forethought. Unlike those on the ground, there are glaring differences between airborne networks. Virtually all of the systems are compatible with virtually any mobile computing device, including laptop PCs, Macs, and smartphones, such as iPhone®, BlackBerry® and Droid®. But speed of data transfer will vary widely. For example, you may see a system promoted as email and Internet, only to discover that it operates at one-tenth the speed of dial-up.
Simply put, there is no “one system” that’s right for everyone. But there is a practical solution for virtually any turbine aircraft, from a myriad of manufacturers and service providers. We're here to help clear the air.
Know your available broadband network services.
The first step is to understand the different networks. As complex as it may seem, there are really just three broadband networks in aviation.
| Inmarsat SwiftBroadband | A relatively new service, SwiftBroadband operates on three geostationary (Inmarsat I-4) satellites in orbit 22,000 miles above the Earth, and provides global coverage. Several companies manufacture the equipment, and service is available through several providers – including Aircell. |
| Ku-band Satellite | This service operates on geostationary satellites in orbit, also about 22,000 miles above the Earth. It is flying on approximately 200 business and government aircraft worldwide. Its speeds rival Gogo Biz™ Inflight Internet, but it is impractical for all but the largest business aircraft because it is simply too expensive and too heavy. |
| Gogo Biz™ Inflight Internet | Operating over an exclusive, proprietary air-to-ground spectrum, this technology utilizes a network of towers in the U.S. It uses a modified version of the same technology employed by Sprint, Verizon and others to provide nationwide mobile coverage. We are the only company that manufactures this equipment, which is in service aboard major commercial airlines and hundreds of business aircraft flying today. |
Network Comparison Chart – Compare what you can do with each network, specific equipment information and costs.
Which one of them is right for you?
Determining the right system for your aircraft starts with answering a few simple questions.
- Where do you want to fly?
- What do you want to do? Internet, email, voice, cockpit data services?
- Would you like wired or wireless access?
Weighing your options.
Remember, as you move ahead, that it pays to take a long-term view. For example, email is a great addition to any cabin. But will your passengers always be satisfied with less than a robust Internet experience? At Aircell® we provide the industry’s widest selection of technology for airborne communication over all the major networks. So what works best for you is also what works for us.
To find out more, just ask your Aircell dealer. Or contact Aircell at +1.303.301.3271. In Europe +41 (32) 841 2838.
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