Iridium Communications (NASDAQ: IRDM) has introduced its Iridium Certus aviation commercial service that provides a secure cockpit domain with reliable voice and data capabilities. Using L-band satellite frequencies in the 1-2 GHz range for improved cockpit communications, Iridium Certus for aviation complements commercial transport passenger cabin connectivity Ka/Ku band services and can be a primary service for small-to-midsize business jet cabins, according to the satellite operator. During oceanic flying, Iridium Certus delivers a global alternative to HF/VHF for Electronic Flight Bag, critical data, and passenger communications.
With speeds up to 704 Kbps, Iridium Certus offers high speed, weather-resilient L-band global connectivity. Scalable to meet size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements for various aircraft types and operational requirements, Iridium Certus provides a secure cockpit domain with voice and data capabilities. Aircraft operators obtain cockpit data in real time, enabling better decision making and improving operational efficiency.
This announcement marks the company’s availability and certification of Iridium Connected aviation solutions. These products are designed for commercial transport aircraft, business aviation, helicopters, private aircraft, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems and offer more compact, cost-effective equipment with better coverage compared to alternative systems.
Iridium’s supplier partners are introducing a range of multi-tier Iridium Certus solutions that complement other in-flight connectivity systems installed on aircraft. Safety certifications are currently in progress, with flight trials expected to begin by the end of 2023 and approvals expected in 2024.
“The aviation industry is forecasting a period of unprecedented growth, where reliable connectivity has become crucial for both passenger and cockpit communications,” says Matt Desch, Iridium CEO. “Iridium Certus perfectly fits these applications due to the combination of its SWaP as well as the outstanding reliability of our global network. With our upgraded constellation, we have significantly improved and expanded our offerings, delivering air traffic control services, weather, and critical information to cockpits worldwide more affordably than ever before.”
With its unique low-Earth orbit, 66-satellite constellation, Iridium offers weather-resilient L-band connectivity and global coverage. The Iridium Certus service is designed to scale device SWaP requirements and support various mission needs, with different price points and versatility for diverse aircraft types and operational requirements.
“Iridium’s first-generation voice and data solutions are installed on over 60,000 aircraft today and have been critical for flight safety and relied upon by pilots and airlines for years,” said John Peterson, executive director of aviation, Iridium. “As the preferred solution for a wide range of aviation applications, from drones to airliners, Iridium Certus is ready to support the industry’s evolving connectivity needs.”
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