With Testing Completed in Australia, New Tech Now Available to Manufacturers

A trio of companies unveiled a new Air-to-Ground broadband comms system for public safety agencies, aiming to provide essential services in any emergency.

The system was brought to bear by SKYFive AG, FLightcell International, and Sequans Communications S.A. under the "A2G' umbrella. A2G modules will be provided in-flight communications with a small, lightweight footprint for any aircraft. Flightcell's DZMx is the first device to use the A2G tech, tipping the scales at a scant 800 grams to provide a much more affordable form of airborne internet capability than traditional air to ground antenna systems. At the heart of the A2G system lies a small, "postage stamp sized modem" designed by SKYFive and Sequans. The tiny little thing enables a "reliable, secure, and always on A2G communications link" for systems so equipped.

So far, testing has been completed with Australian air-to-ground network provider Pivotel, who deployed a number of compatible A2G base stations throughout its greater Sydney area in 2022. Reportedly, the tests were successful, confirming the required throughput, latency, reliability, and consistency of the network under stress in a real-world operational environment. Further tests are on tap throughout the rest of 2023.

"This new product underlines our commitment to developing an entire ecosystem of A2G terminals, therewith maximizing the addressable market and giving choice to aircraft operators," said Dirk Lindenmeier, CCO of SKYFive. "The A2G module represents a further milestone reached in miniaturizing the technology and making aircraft installation easy. We look forward to seeing entirely new aircraft types connecting to our networks very soon."

"Our customers strongly demand reliable broadband connectivity for various use cases," said Flightcell Director James Mace. " By introducing the option to configure DZMx with an A2G module we open up new possibilities for operators of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft that are flying air ambulance, aerial firefighting, law enforcement, and other missions, as well as light business aircraft, both for our large installed base and new deliveries."

While Flightcell has already begun offering the A2G tech in their product lineup, Sequans will allow any manufacturer to avail themselves of the system with the proper connectivity module.

FMI: www.sequans.com