Thuraya Debuts Aeronautical Communication Service

By Jai C.S., TMCnet Contributor

Thuraya Telecommunications Company – a provider of mobile satellite service of voice, data, maritime, rural telephony, fleet management and other telecommunication solutions in remote areas – has launched its first satellite aeronautical service, which can offer reliable and cost-effective voice communications on board all types of aircraft. This announcement is in line with the company’s expansion strategy.

"Thuraya (News - Alert) is proud to launch this service in a thriving sector such as the aeronautical communications. Like most of our products, we have ensured that the new solutions are compact, user-friendly, lightweight and affordable. This move reflects Thuraya's dynamic growth and expansion into new vertical markets," Sultan Ahmed Al Ghafli, chief strategy officer at Thuraya, said.

Al Ghafli further highlighted the superior quality of voice and data services delivered by Thuraya's robust network.

The initial service offering will be based on Thuraya's compact narrowband terminal which provides voice, fax and 9.6Kbps circuit switch data, as well as GmPRS data at speeds of up to 60 Kbps. Thuraya’s solution compact narrowband terminal is already installed and operational onboard over 200 helicopters and business jets.

Branded AviationComms, Thuraya has a plan to introduce a complete portfolio of aeronautical services. The company believes that the new solutions will enable both voice and data communications for pilots, crew and passengers alike.

Based on hardware developed by French-based aeronautical services specialist SATSYS, Thuraya AviationsComms comes with a compact design fitting all types of aircraft across military, commercial and civil aviation segments. The terminal features a small antenna and a very light weight; resulting in significant weight and fuel saving compared to traditional terminals. Company official also clarified that the service would be extremely cost-effective.

Alternatively, the company is also focused currently in developing a broadband terminal which upon completion during the last quarter this year, is expected to provide higher data speeds of up to 444 Kbps in standard mode and up to 384 Kbps in streaming mode, as well as voice and optional onboard GSM services.

(source: http://satellite.tmcnet.com/aeronautical-communications/topics/aeronautical-communications/articles/95422-thuraya-debuts-aeronautical-communication-service.htm)