The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has approved an application by WirelessG and Row 44 to install Wi-Fi equipment in commercial aircraft in SA, paving the way for in-flight Internet access.
WirelessG, which provides a network of Wi-Fi hotspots around the country, will allow it to operate its G-Connect broadband service aboard commercial aircraft flying between destinations in SA.
Subash Devkaran, senior manager for aircraft certification at the CAA, says the move will “enhance the value proposition offered in the airline industry”.
The authority says the in-flight Wi-Fi technology has been “rigorously tested” by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
“The CAA’s approval of WirelessG’s in-flight Wi-Fi services came in a matter of weeks following the safety endorsement and issuing of a supplemental type certificate (STC) release from Federal Aviation Authority in the US and the European Aviation Safety Agency to equip 737-800 series commercial aircraft with Wi-Fi equipment.
Devkaran says the in-flight STC allows for the use of any Wi-Fi-enabled mobile device. Mobile communication through GSM still has to be switched off when using dual-mode devices, but airlines equipped with this technology may now apply for special exemption from the CAA to accommodate the use of Wi-Fi-only with supported phones.
According to WirelessG CEO Carel van der Merwe, 67% of the target market indicated they would use the in-flight service. — Staff reporter, TechCentral
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