The technology

OnAir is the only inflight mobile communications provider to use Inmarsat's Swiftbroadband 4th generation satellite services.

Inmarsat is the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications and its SwiftBroadband solution is designed to meet the demand for more bandwidth across all areas of aviation - as well as delivering high-quality voice communications.

SwiftBroadband offers all connectivity needed to support communication services such as inflight cellular services, instant messaging, access to the Internet and to corporate VPNs. It is a single lightweight 'low-drag' system that can be used in key areas of communication: including operational communications and cabin connectivity.

Broadband speed connections

SwiftBroadband offers significant capacity and speed. For example, Mobile OnAir can support up to 24 simultaneous voice calls over SwiftBroadband, compared to just five with older versions of satellite technology. This facilitates both better communication services for passengers and improved revenues for the airlines.

With Inmarsat SwiftBroadband technology, OnAir delivers broadband solutions with the world's best global coverage. However, the onboard system has been designed to easily adapt to other air-ground link options, underlining the versatility of OnAir's technology.