Satellite access performances assessment and optimization for in-cabin Internet and ATC traffic

Abstract

New generation satellite systems provide an opportunity to offer Internet access to passengers on board airplanes. Supplied services can be VPN access, e-mail and web browsing. The two major aeronautical manufacturers already promote such systems: Connection by Boeing, OnAir by Airbus. These first generation systems have proven the validity of such a service offer. At the same time, an increasing interest for the use of satellite communications for air traffic control has been motivated by the increasing load of traditional radio links, mainly in the HF and VHF bands. However, the development of a dedicated satellite system for ATC (Air Traffic Control) and ATN (Aeronautical Telecommunication Network) seems to be a long-term perspective. The objective of the presented study is to address a system design in order to provide both Internet-like access and a high-reliability channel for aeronautical applications using the same satellite links. Preliminary results are presented that demonstrate the technical feasibility of the system with increased capacity thanks to the use of Ka-band. Open issues are then discussed to motivate further work.