Thales has announced the expansion of its global aviation connectivity offering with FlytLINK. FlytLINK will provide dedicated satellite-based communications capabilities primarily aimed at connecting aircraft cockpit and crew operations. Thales is promoting the system as the first solution that provides dedicated satellite-based communications capability primarily aimed at connecting aircraft cockpit and crew operations without relying on ad-hoc network solutions.

The solution will deliver essential communications for enhanced safety features and operational efficiency. It has been purpose-built with network security in mind to meet the unique challenges of the aviation community and can equip all aviation platforms, including commercial transport, business jets, rotorcraft, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and military applications. The solution also offers an easy-to-use interface.

This new connectivity offering will be available with different service provider packages in the near future. Initially, the FlytLINK Certus solution will operate using Iridium Certus broadband services over a network of 66 satellites covering 100% of the globe, including poles and oceans. FlytLINK Certus will provide highly reliable, mobile and essential voice, text and web communications. Its safety features include optional flight recorder data streaming, Push-to-Talk voice, ACARS SBD and other embedded services.

Operationally, FlytLINK Certus enables enhanced in-air reporting, service logging, flight crew scheduling, aircraft monitoring and other operational service needs. It also supports electronic flight bag pairing, real-time weather, active aircraft tracking, secure pilot and crew WiFi access as well as enhanced calling.

Its electronics package and antennae variants can support the fastest upload and download speeds offered through Iridium Certus and are software-upgradeable to access additional services in the future, according to Thales.