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TriaGnoSys and Skuku have announced the formation of a partnership to provide the next generation of inflight GSM services. The technology allows the use of voice and SMS functions, without the need to install onboard GSM equipment. Instead it uses existing connectivity, including in-seat screens, seat-back phones and Internet. The technology will be on display at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, on TriaGnoSys stand 6C1.
To use the service, passengers simply insert their own SIM card into a SIM card reader. On aircraft with Internet connectivity, SMS messages can be sent and received using the IFE screen, and softphones can be used for voice calls. Seat-back phones can also be used to make and receive voice calls, as can Inmarsat and Iridium satellite phones.
Skuku technology uses SIM card data in ground GSM servers to provide roaming for voice and SMS. TriaGnoSys, experts in aeronautical communication, has developed the software to enable Skuku to be used on aircraft.
Colin Blou, VP of Sales and Marketing, Skuku, said, “From the passengers’ perspective, using the TriaGnoSys/Skuku service is very similar to current inflight mobile phone services. They can continue to use their mobile number and contacts list, and they are billed through their normal bills. The key difference is that they are billed at national rates without having to pay costly roaming charges.”
Axel Jahn, Managing Director of TriaGnoSys, said, “Airlines, as well as business jet owners and operators, can exploit the technology they already have on their aircraft to provide an additional passenger service. The installation process is a simple software upgrade, bypassing the need for the expensive and time-consuming fitting of hardware. In addition, Skuku technology can easily be integrated into current generation IP-enabled IFE systems.”
Jahn continued, “From the success of current inflight GSM services, it is clear that passengers want access to SMSs and voice calls during flights. This is a highly efficient way of providing that service.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
