Geneva, Switzerland | November 29, 2011 — OnAir will be an Inmarsat Distribution Partner for Global XpressTM, the first global Ka-band network to provide inflight broadband connectivity for the aeronautical market.

OnAir currently uses Inmarsat SwiftBroadband (SBB) to provide the connectivity for Mobile OnAir and Internet OnAir, and has been working with Inmarsat over a period of time on a seamless upgrade path from SBB to GX.

“We are delighted to be working with Inmarsat to bring passengers the next generation of inflight connectivity,” said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir. “That passengers want inflight connectivity is beyond doubt. The provision of a consistent global service is particularly important for our customers, so that they know exactly what to expect, wherever and whenever they fly.”

Global Xpress will operate in the Ka-band, and thus will provide users with significantly higher throughput than other satellite solutions, including the current generation technology based on Ku-band. This improved performance, combined with superior economics for both services and equipment and complete coverage of air routes, positions Global Xpress to support broad introduction of connectivity services to passengers and airlines on a sustainable basis across their entire fleets.

“We have a very strong history with OnAir,” said Leo Mondale, Managing Director of Inmarsat GX. “OnAir was appointed our first SwiftBroadband Distribution Partner back in 2006, and in 2009 was given an award for being the greatest contributor to SBB growth. OnAir has demonstrated its ability to integrate Inmarsat technology and services into attractive solutions for the aviation market, and we’re delighted to extend the relationship to include Global Xpress’s broadband services. The partnership with OnAir represents another major step toward realizing the next generation in aviation connectivity, which we’ll begin offering commercially in 2013.”

This agreement enables OnAir, a leading provider global SBB services for commercial airlines, governmental and business aircraft, to remain at the forefront of the sector, while ensuring that the business becomes the benchmark for industry solutions.

OnAir is planning to offer Global Xpress services to its customers starting in 2013.

Seattle, WA | September 12, 2011 – A new suite of products that provide ultra-competitive in-flight connectivity for passengers and crew will be launched by ARINC at the APEX Show in Seattle, USA this week (12-15 September.)

ARINC’s Cabin Connect products incorporate technological advances which, together with the enhanced bandwidth offered by SwiftBroadband, provide commercial carriers with a cost-effective and highly flexible onboard wifi option that offers numerous benefits to both airlines and passengers.

Cabin Connect enables passengers to access the internet directly from their own personal electronic devices (PEDs), whether laptop, smart phone, tablet (iPad/Playbook) or gaming devices. Users simply log on to the system through a hotspot portal similar to those found in internet cafés and hotels.

Airlines can provide this service free of charge or use it to generate revenue through a range of charging options – per hour, per flight or per month. For example, passengers can either select a pre-paid option when buying their ticket or pay onboard via credit card, cash or frequent flyer miles payments. Airlines can also offer enhanced ARINC inflight entertainment (IFE) and communications products – including seatback messaging and live news for passengers, without a PED.

“Thanks to developments in SwiftBroadband technology we are very pleased to offer a strong alternative value proposition for airlines wishing to pursue connectivity within the cabin,” said Lee Costin, Director of ARINC’s Satellite Solutions and Cabin Services.

Providing passengers with onboard wifi, supported by ARINC’s Live Credit Card Authorisation (Live CCA), significantly reduces the risks of fraudulent transactions – estimated to be between 4% and 8% of the total – thanks to real-time authorisation. This enables carriers to confidently promote and sell more luxurious, higher-value items in their duty-free catalogue. According to Costin, many airlines regard Live CCA as a key benefit to installing satcom on their aircraft.

Airlines can also increase revenue by offering onboard retail portals with partner goods and services, as well as through sponsorship and advertising on their sites. ARINC is working with numerous carriers to ensure they get the most from their onboard connectivity.

“We are seeing a large number of both short and long haul carriers looking at their onboard connectivity plans,” added Lee Costin.. “ARINC is now in a position to compete head-on with the more established players in the industry and we look forward to the next 12 months which will be a very exciting time for in-flight connectivity.”

ARINC’s new AirCrew Connect – another product in the Cabin Connect suite – boosts efficiency and facilitates a higher level of customer service. Via a direct link to the airline’s headquarters or ground operations department, cabin crew can carry out a range of customer services, such as booking onboard transfers, tracking lost baggage or finding a hotel room. AirCrew Connect also enables real time fault-finding so any issue with IFE or onboard systems can either be remedied in flight, or engineers can be booked to be waiting on hand for the aircraft to arrive at its destination, decreasing the amount of downtime the airframe requires.

“ARINC’s flexibility in charging options can even include third party sponsorship of services to be used,” he said. “Content provision is also extremely flexible and can be varied by route, aircraft type and class of travel if required.”

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL [LABACE 2011] | August 10, 2011 –- Aircell, the world’s leading provider of in-flight connectivity for business aviation, announces that two members of its global dealer network have received separate installation certifications for AVIATOR 300 and AVIATOR 350 systems from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC). A significant milestone in the worldwide proliferation of in-flight connectivity for business aviation, these new certifications represent the first-ever approvals of SwiftBroadband-based communications systems in Brazil.

Aircell’s AVIATOR-series products, powered by Thrane & Thrane, enable global email, light Internet and voice capabilities via Inmarsat’s satellite-based SwiftBroadband service.

“Aircell is proud to be bringing the productivity-enhancing benefits of SwiftBroadband to Brazil for the very first time,” said John Wade, Aircell’s executive vice president & general manager. “The diversity of these two new installations – one in a light jet and the other in a transport-category aircraft – are shining examples of SwiftBroadband’s capability, the flexibility of the AVIATOR equipment packages, and the expertise of Aircell’s global dealer & distributor network. The customers are thrilled to have the very latest technology aboard their aircraft,” concluded Wade. Following are details of the two recent system certifications in Brazil.

· An AVIATOR 350 system was installed and certified aboard an Airbus ACJ319 in VVIP configuration by Avionics Services of Sao Paulo. AVIATOR 350 incorporates a High Gain Antenna (HGA) that enables near-global coverage and connection speeds up to 432 kbps. Incorporating an exclusive Iridium/Inmarsat filter solution, the system was fully integrated with the Aircell Axxess cabin system and included cockpit data capabilities. Joao Batista Vernini, Director and CEO of Avionics Services, said, “This VVIP customer is one of the most demanding we’ve ever worked with and the AVIATOR system met all of their expectations. The system has performed flawlessly and they are very happy with the connectivity & communications benefits it provides them,” he concluded.
· An AVIATOR 300 system was installed and certified aboard a Cessna Citation CJ3 by TAM Aviação Executiva at its Sao Paulo facility. AVIATOR 300 incorporates an Intermediate Gain Antenna (IGA) that enables near-global coverage and connection speeds up to 332 kbps. Roberto Fajardo, GM & Director of Maintenance at TAM Aviação Executiva, said, “The customer is a traditional corporate flight department and they are very pleased to have a system that is affordable, small enough to fit on their aircraft, and capable of giving passengers access to Internet and e-mail in flight. Demand for Aircell’s SwiftBroadband products is rising – more quotes are being requested and we’re about to begin an installation for another customer.”

In addition to the aftermarket, the AVIATOR 300 system is also very popular in the OEM market. The system has now been selected for 12 factory airframe programs, including those at Bombardier Aerospace, Cessna Aircraft Company, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation and Gulfstream Aerospace.

Aircell is displaying its in-flight connectivity range at LABACE 2011 in Sao Paulo this week, Stand #2025. There are a significant number of aircraft in the show’s static display that have one or more Aircell connectivity systems aboard, allowing attendees to see them up close. Aircell will also be tweeting from the show – follow @AircellBizav by visiting www.twitter.com/aircellbizav.

EBACE, Geneva – May 17, 2011 – Dasnair’s Falcon 7X passengers will be able to use their mobile phones and laptops during flights, thanks to OnAir’s inflight connectivity services. Dasnair will be the world’s first Falcon 7X operator to provide the most complete connectivity suite of services installed on a large cabin long range business jet.

Terms of the agreement are currently being finalized and further announcements will be made in the coming weeks. The service is planned to be launched towards the end of 2011 and the first connected flight has already been booked.

OnAir’s SwiftBroadband-based service Mobile OnAir allows passengers to use their own mobile phones and smartphones during flights, just as they do on the ground, for calls, text messages, email and mobile data. Usage is billed by the passenger’s mobile operator, in the same way international, which makes it very simple to use.

Passengers can also use inflight Internet using laptops, tablets or any WiFi-enabled device. It works in the same way as any hotspot in the ground.

“Our Falcon 7X fleet is at the forefront of innovation and the level and quality of the services we offer to our passengers are at the core of our strategy. With OnAir, Dasnair is proud to set the highest standards by being the first business jet operator worldwide to offer our passengers the ability to remain in touch while they fly”, said Gérard Limat, CEO of Dasnair.

The OnAir solution is the lightest, the most versatile offering the most advanced communication capabilities ever deployed on a large cabin-long range business jet and has been specifically designed with this market in mind.

The airborne system, designed and produced by satellite communications specialist TriaGnoSys, weighs only 15kg and consists of just two hardware units. It is fully compatible with any SwiftBroadband-capable Satcom system, for example Honeywell and Thrane & Thrane. Simple installation is part of the design process, and the equipment can be installed in the aircraft during a standard maintenance check.

“We are all becoming increasingly dependent on our mobile devices and, unsurprisingly, people like to continue using their phones and tablets when they are flying. Dasnair passengers will be able to use both GSM and inflight Internet, giving them the flexibility to be connected in the best way to suit their needs”, said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir.

“Dasnair’s selection of OnAir clearly demonstrates the flexibility of our inflight connectivity solution – it shows OnAir can meet passengers’ demands for inflight communication across a number of market segments,” continued Dawkins.

Surf, Talk and Email On the Jet of Jets

EBACE, Geneva – May 16, 2011 – Passengers travelling in Comlux the Aviation Group’s new Airbus 319 CJ, which comes into service in January 2012, will be able to remain in touch during flights using their mobile phones, thanks to OnAir’s inflight connectivity service. Comlux passengers will be able to make and receive calls and text messages, do their emails and use mobile data, OnAir announced today.

The A319 is the second Comlux aircraft to be equipped with OnAir’s services, following the flagship A320 Prestige, which just entered service at the beginning of May 2011.

OnAir’s SwiftBroadband-based service Mobile OnAir enables passengers to use their own mobile phones and Smartphones wherever they are flying in the world. Usage is billed by the passenger’s mobile operator, in the same way as international roaming, which makes it very simple to manage for any VIP operator and charter.

“The aircraft is currently in our completion facility in Indianapolis, USA, being prepared to our exacting standards. It will operate from the Comlux headquarters in Zurich. Our clients made it very clear they want to be able to communicate during flights. Offering Mobile OnAir service is part of our ongoing drive to improve our clients travel experience” said Richard Gaona, CEO of Comlux the Aviation Group.

“Inflight connectivity is now a reality and it should be no surprise that people want to be able to use their phones during flights. After all, we can use them in any other means of transportation. It is particularly true of the people who charter Comlux aircraft, for whom the ability to communicate during flights is very important”, said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir.

AVIATOR 200 System Offers a New Level of Affordability in Satellite-based Connectivity for Business Aircraft

ATLANTA, GA [NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention] – October 18, 2010 – Aircell, the world’s leading provider of inflight connectivity, today announced that shipments are imminent for its new AVIATOR 200 SwiftBroadband solution. With reduced antenna size and increased affordability, this new system makes satellite-based connectivity practical for a whole new segment of the industry, including light jets and turboprops.

Originally announced at EBACE 2010, the new AVIATOR 200 pairs the proven, lightweight avionics equipment found in existing SwiftBroadband solutions with a small, low-gain satcom antenna. The result is a reduction in overall system size and weight as well as the cost and complexity of aircraft modifications. Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solutions are powered by Thrane & Thrane.

With the AVIATOR 200 equipment package and newly-launched SwiftBroadband 200 service from Inmarsat, operators can seamlessly use their personal laptops and mobile devices for e-mail and light Internet services at up to 200 kbps with coverage virtually anywhere in the world. They can also use the system’s integrated cabin handsets to make and receive voice calls.

“The SwiftBroadband service continues to set the standard for affordable, global connectivity,” said John Wade, Aircell’s Executive Vice President and General Manager. “The AVIATOR 200 is a great new option for aircraft that operate regionally and don’t require the higher bandwidth offered by other SwiftBroadband systems. The small antenna is a big part of this new system – since it’s about the size of a VHF antenna, it allows for straightforward installation. We’re very pleased to offer the system to the business aviation market.”

Here is a summary of Aircell’s two SwiftBroadband solutions, both of which operate over the newest generation of satellite technology from Inmarsat:

AVIATOR 200 (new). Offers voice service and data connectivity at up to 200 kbps in multiple world regions. Incorporates a small, low-gain antenna (LGA). System weight is approximately 13 lbs. Equipment cost is approximately $55,000, which excludes installation and varies according to selected options and other factors.

AVIATOR 300. Offers voice service and data connectivity at up to 332 kbps on a near-global basis. Incorporates an intermediate-gain antenna. Total system weight is approximately 17 lbs. Equipment cost is approximately $95,000, which excludes installation and varies according to selected options and other factors.

Through a comprehensive product portfolio, Aircell offers one of the industry’s largest selections of network services – including Iridium Satellite, Inmarsat SwiftBroadband and Gogo Biz™ Inflight Internet. These services span multiple technologies, including air-to-ground, low-earth orbit satellite and geostationary satellite. All Aircell products are available through the Company’s worldwide dealer and distributor network.

Aircell is displaying its complete family of airborne communications systems this week in Booth 3737 at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting & convention in Atlanta.

Annapolis, Maryland, USA, April 1, 2010—ARINC Incorporated today announced it has been named a Distribution Partner (DP) by Inmarsat for its high-speed SwiftBroadbandSM satellite communications service.

ARINC is the world’s largest provider of aeronautical satellite communications for commercial airlines, government/military and business aviation. Its new status as Distribution Partner will result in a number of compelling tailored solutions for the aviation market, since ARINC can purchase airtime directly from Inmarsat, instead of through intermediate providers.

“ARINC plans to provide SwiftBroadband connectivity in a one-stop transaction,” said Andy Hubbard, ARINC Aviation Solutions Director, Europe, Middle East & Africa. “Our customers will not need to source a communications pipe separately, as it will be part of a package with flight applications, connectivity software, and technical support.”

Perry Melton, Inmarsat COO, said “Inmarsat is delighted to further extend our long-standing partnership with ARINC, which has a prominent position in delivering end-to-end solutions for the Aeronautical industry. Working with partners like ARINC is key to the continued success and record growth of SwiftBroadband we have seen to date.”

Bob Richard, ARINC Senior Director, ARINC DirectSM said: “ARINC welcomes this major step forward in our longstanding and successful business relationship with Inmarsat. The designation of Distribution Partner validates the capability and quality of ARINC’s global services operations.”

ARINC offers a range of aircraft applications on the “classic” Inmarsat services of Aero-L, Aero-H/H+, and Aero-I, as well as Swift 64 and SwiftBroadband. The company launched a new marketing initiative for SwiftBroadband to customers effective April 1. As a Distribution Partner, ARINC will be able to sell high-speed SwiftBroadband service more aggressively in its traditional markets of Commercial Aviation, Government/Military, and Business Aviation, as well as in direct sales to other Service Providers.

SwiftBroadband provides ground-to-air and air-to-ground connectivity up to 432Kbps for high-speed data. It is capable of supporting a wide range of crew and passenger applications, Voice communications, Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications, passenger telephony including in-seat, mobile, VoIP and text messaging, E-mail, Internet, intranet, instant messaging, secure VPN access, and in-flight news updates. SwiftBroadband can also provide a pre-determined quality of service through streaming classes of 8, 16, 32, 64 or 128kbps, and higher bandwidths.

Geneva, Switzerland, 2 March 2010. OnAir together with Oman Air celebrated a successful first flight using the full spectrum of mobile and WiFi Internet connectivity services based on Inmarsat SwiftBroadband. This is the first time in aviation history that an airline offers such an extensive range of services (GSM/GPRS together with WiFi Internet) at the same time.

At this stage, the service is in operation aboard one of Oman Air’s brand new Airbus A330 aircraft on the Muscat International to London Heathrow route, with planned extensions to other Oman Air aircraft.

Passenger services on the flight provided Internet access via laptops (wireless), as well as the ability via mobile phones and smart phones to make and receive calls, to send and receive text messages and emails, and to access the Internet.

Benoit Debains, CEO of OnAir, commented: “This milestone underlines OnAir’s leadership as the only service provider today capable of offering the full suite of connectivity solutions for cabin and cockpit – GSM/GPRS and WiFi Internet with global coverage.”

GENEVA, May 11 – [EBACE 2009] Aircell, the world’s leading provider of airborne communications, announces that Jet Republic has selected Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution for its entire fleet of aircraft. Covering 110 systems, the order represents the largest SwiftBroadband system order ever placed.

Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution will allow Jet Republic passengers to seamlessly use their Wi-Fi Smartphones for email in flight. They can also use the system’s integrated cabin handsets to make voice calls. Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution is powered by Thrane & Thrane.

With operational headquarters in Lisbon, Portugal, Jet Republic is a private jet club that offers two different programs to its Members — share ownership and a private jet card. Based exclusively on factory-new Learjet 60 XR aircraft, the company serves 1,000 airports in Europe with guaranteed aircraft availability at as little as 24 hours’ notice.

“Jet Republic’s aim is to revolutionize the private jet experience — to create the aviation equivalent of a five-star boutique hotel. By introducing BlackBerry(R) and iPhone(R) connectivity, our Members are able to keep in touch with the world, even from 51,000 feet,” said Jonathan Breeze, founder and CEO, Jet Republic. “With bespoke interiors, hot food, real espresso, a flight attendant and a concierge service, we are offering large cabin service at midsize cabin prices.”

The first Aircell-equipped Jet Republic aircraft is scheduled to enter service in September 2009.

Andrew Geist, Senior Vice President, Business Aviation Solutions, Aircell, said, “For customers with global connectivity needs, our new SwiftBroadband system is the very latest in affordable communications — and a dramatic leap forward from earlier generations of technology. We’re very proud to have our system selected for such an important role in Jet Republic’s fleet,” concluded Geist.

Through its diverse line of airborne communications products, Aircell offers the industry’s largest selection of network services spanning multiple technologies that include air-to-ground, low-earth orbit satellite and geostationary satellite. For connectivity, in addition to its global SwiftBroadband solution, Aircell is offering its proprietary High Speed Internet system that operates on an advanced network of ground wireless stations in the U.S.

About Jet Republic

Launched in September 2008, Jet Republic is a new aviation company that aims to redefine private jet travel. Its fleet is part of the largest European private jet order ever made — $1.5 billion for 110 Bombardier Learjet 60 XR aircraft in June 2008. Jet Republic flies to over 1,000 airports in Europe and tens of thousands more around the world. Headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal, Jet Republic serves the UK, Western Europe and Russia. Jet Republic is an inclusive private jet club and equivalent to a five-star boutique hotel in the sky. Jet Republic is 100% carbon neutral through a partnership with ClimateCare, one of Europe’s most experienced providers of carbon offsets. Each project is rigorously audited and monitored for quality. For sales enquiries go to www.JetRepublic.com or call +44 (0)20 7959 6772.

About Aircell

Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications and a single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support. With a global sales and support presence, its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world’s four largest fractional ownership fleets. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary new mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell(R) Network and its inflight portal, known as Gogo(R), revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. The Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay In Touch, In Flight(R). For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

Industry’s largest SwiftBroadband order to date; Aircell will bring voice & data connectivity to Jet Republic passengers on every flight

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND [EBACE 2009] – May 11, 2009 – Aircell, the world’s leading provider of airborne communications, announces that Jet Republic has selected Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution for its entire fleet of aircraft. Covering 110 systems, the order represents the largest SwiftBroadband system order ever placed.

Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution will allow Jet Republic passengers to seamlessly use their Wi-Fi Smartphones for email in flight. They can also use the system’s integrated cabin handsets to make voice calls. Aircell’s SwiftBroadband solution is powered by Thrane & Thrane.

With operational headquarters in Lisbon, Portugal, Jet Republic is a private jet club that offers two different programs to its Members – share ownership and a private jet card. Based exclusively on factory-new Learjet 60 XR aircraft, the company serves 1,000 airports in Europe with guaranteed aircraft availability at as little as 24 hours’ notice.

“Jet Republic’s aim is to revolutionize the private jet experience – to create the aviation equivalent of a five-star boutique hotel. By introducing BlackBerry® and iPhone® connectivity, our Members are able to keep in touch with the world, even from 51,000 feet,” said Jonathan Breeze, founder and CEO, Jet Republic. “With bespoke interiors, hot food, real espresso, a flight attendant and a concierge service, we are offering large cabin service at midsize cabin prices.”

The first Aircell-equipped Jet Republic aircraft is scheduled to enter service in September 2009.

Andrew Geist, Senior Vice President, Business Aviation Solutions, Aircell, said, “For customers with global connectivity needs, our new SwiftBroadband system is the very latest in affordable communications – and a dramatic leap forward from earlier generations of technology. We’re very proud to have our system selected for such an important role in Jet Republic’s fleet,” concluded Geist.

Through its diverse line of airborne communications products, Aircell offers the industry’s largest selection of network services spanning multiple technologies that include air-to-ground, low-earth orbit satellite and geostationary satellite. For connectivity, in addition to its global SwiftBroadband solution, Aircell is offering its proprietary High Speed Internet system that operates on an advanced network of ground wireless stations in the U.S.

About Jet Republic

Launched in September 2008, Jet Republic is a new aviation company that aims to redefine private jet travel. Its fleet is part of the largest European private jet order ever made – $1.5 billion for 110 Bombardier Learjet 60 XR aircraft in June 2008. Jet Republic flies to over 1,000 airports in Europe and tens of thousands more around the world. Headquartered in Lisbon, Portugal, Jet Republic serves the UK, Western Europe and Russia. Jet Republic is an inclusive private jet club and equivalent to a five-star boutique hotel in the sky. Jet Republic is 100% carbon neutral through a partnership with ClimateCare, one of Europe’s most experienced providers of carbon offsets. Each project is rigorously audited and monitored for quality. For sales enquiries go to www.JetRepublic.com or call +44 (0)20 7959 6772.

About Aircell

Aircell is the world’s leading provider of airborne communications and a single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support. With a global sales and support presence, its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world’s four largest fractional ownership fleets. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary new mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell® Network and its inflight portal, known as Gogo®, revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. The Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell’s vision is to give everyone the ability to stay In Touch, In Flight®. For more information about Aircell, please visit www.aircell.com.

Breakthrough technology helps treat sick passengers midflight, helps airlines reduce costly unplanned diversion

Geneva, Switzerland, 31 March 2009 – OnAir and Remote Diagnostic Technologies Ltd (RDT) today announced the successful testing of next generation inflight telemedicine on commercial aircraft. For the first time, doctors on the ground can use real-time moving video technology to remotely assist afflicted passengers onboard as well as the crew managing the emergency situation in the air. Additionally, this equipment streams real-time voice and eight key vital signs including blood oxygen level, breath gas analysis and 12-lead electrocardiogram. This live contact helps doctors enormously in evaluating the patient’s condition, in arriving at an accurate diagnosis, and in advising on emergency treatment – which will in turn improve the quality of passenger care and help reduce the number of emergency diversions .

With the increase in air travel, people of all ages and medical conditions are travelling using commercial airlines, increasing the probability of a medical emergency occurring in flight. At the same time, the cost of diverting aircraft is increasing with the growing use of super carriers such as the A380. Using advanced telemedicine services can help avoid one in ten emergency landings, each of which can cost an airline anything between €30,000 and €165,000 depending on aircraft type and situation.

Real-time video contact between patient and medical experts on the ground is made possible by the Tempus ICTM telemedicine system using OnAir connectivity based on SwiftBroadband, high capacity, high-speed satellite service from Inmarsat. The system was successfully trialled on a bmi flight at the end of February.

RDT CEO Graham Murphy said: “Tempus IC is the latest patient monitor from RDT and is setting new standards in terms of size, weight, robustness and ease of use. It is the world’s first monitor to allow users to transmit a full set of vital signs data, with two-way voice and video communication to provide the diagnostic information that supports fast, informed medical decisions by ground-based experts. With OnAir, RDT can provide global coverage.”

Benoit Debains, CEO of OnAir, said: “OnAir’s and RDT’s advanced technology and our SwiftBroadband connection, mean that medical experts can more accurately assess the situation than ever before. This not only offers reassurance to the patient, but is an enormous step forward in reducing the number of unplanned landings and in improving operational efficiency for the airline.”

Cpt. Dr. Graham Cresswell, Pilot Medical Officer, bmi, who worked as part of the team on the user requirements for the technology, said: “This has been a great advance in the management of an in-flight medical incident. With the emergence of ultra long-haul aircraft such as the A380, this kind of technology is really the only way forward to contain the component of risk that an in-flight medical incident presents, not just for the airline but for the passenger as well. The combination of medical data with the ability actually to see and talk to patient and crew is a real breakthrough.”

Through a development contract, the European Space Agency has worked closely with RDT to develop solutions for providing telemedicine services via SatCom for the commercial aviation and space sectors.

About Remote Diagnostic Technologies Ltd
Founded in 1997 and based out of offices near Basingstoke in the UK, RDT specialises in the development of leading-edge diagnostic devices for use by non-experts in remote locations. The company has built a strong in-house regulatory, engineering and design capability and has significant experience in medical data transmission off aircraft, backed up by extensive test and performance data.

RDT counts major international airlines such as Virgin Atlantic, bmi British Midland and Emirates amongst its customers. In addition RDT technology is installed with numerous Fortune 500 companies, 16 head of state fleets, corporate jet charter companies and luxury yachts.

RDT has a successful track record of specialising in:

• The design of highly integrated products for both non-expert and expert use on an intermittent basis
• Medical device, design, manufacturing and marketing regulatory approval on a systems basis (CE and FDA)
• Sophisticated telemedicine and communications integration skills (GSM, POTS, ADR, VoIP for Satellite, Ethernet, Other Wireless)
• Wireless and wired broadband connections from remote and moving platforms such as aircraft, boats and oil platforms
• Specialist low bandwidth communications skills for voice, data, video and text
• Certification and design capabilities for aircraft, remote land and maritime use

About OnAir
OnAir is the leading provider of inflight communications, enabling passengers to stay connected during their flight, and airlines to offer new services and generate additional revenues. Present on four of five continents, OnAir provides the only air-travel industry sponsored solution, now available to regular and low-cost airlines, to private and corporate jets, on Airbus and Boeing aircraft, and on long and short-haul flights. OnAir is the only provider of services based on SwiftBroadband, the latest high-bandwidth satellite technology from Inmarsat, which offers GSM and GPRS for voice, data and Internet.

OnAir was incorporated in February 2005 and is owned by SITA, the leading IT solutions provider to the air transport world and Airbus, the leading aircraft manufacturer. OnAir is a member of the GSM Association and an Inmarsat Distribution Partner for SwiftBroadband services.

More information about OnAir is available at www.onair.aero