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The Iridium Certus service leverages L-band satellite frequencies, recognized as a prime choice for cockpit communications. It is an optimal addition to the commercial transport passenger cabin connectivity services provided by Ka/Ku band, and can also serve as the principal service for small to mid-size business jet cabins. Iridium Certus is expected to be the go-to option for electronic flight bag (EFB), critical flight data, and passenger communications during transoceanic flights, instead of HF/VHF.
New multi-tier Iridium Certus solutions are being rolled out by Iridium's partners to augment existing in-flight connectivity (IFC) systems. Numerous Iridium Value Added Manufacturers (VAMs) and Value-Added Resellers (VARs) are presenting an array of Iridium Certus 100 and Iridium Certus 700 solutions. Safety certification procedures are underway, with flight trials projected to start by the end of this year, and approval expected by 2024. This positions the service as an attractive investment for aircraft operators, both in the immediate and longer term.
"The aviation industry is on the cusp of an unparalleled growth period where dependable connectivity is paramount for both passenger and cockpit communications," stated Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium. "Iridium Certus is ideally suited to these needs due to its Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) alongside the remarkable reliability of our global network. With our upgraded satellite constellation, we are expanding our services significantly, providing air traffic control services, weather updates, and critical information to cockpits worldwide more affordably than ever."
Iridium's unique Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite network offers resilient L-band connectivity and unmatched global coverage compared to geostationary (GEO) systems. The versatility of Iridium Certus enables device SWaP requirements to be adjusted according to mission needs, facilitating a variety of price points and adaptability for diverse aircraft types and operational demands. Iridium Certus offers affordable real-time cockpit data access for aircraft operators, supporting better decision-making and improved operational efficiency.
John Peterson, executive director of aviation at Iridium, shared, "Iridium's first-generation voice and data solutions are installed on over 60,000 aircraft today and have been pivotal for flight safety, trusted by pilots and airlines for years. As the preferred solution for a wide range of aviation applications, from drones to airliners, Iridium Certus is equipped to support the industry's evolving connectivity demands."
Iridium Certus's successful integration in maritime and land applications set the stage for its aviation entry. With thousands of subscribers worldwide already utilizing the Iridium Certus service, its deployment has been expansive and well-received. The aviation industry now has access to the comprehensive suite of solutions offered by Iridium Certus. These support Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV)/Urban Air Mobility (UAM), business jet cabin connectivity, and lay the foundation for future flight deck applications. Iridium and its partners are continuously innovating, with more announcements and terminal launches slated for later this year.
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