MCLEAN, Va., - Iridium Communications Inc. a provider of global voice and data satellite communications in McLean, Va., announced the introduction of its Iridium Certus aviation commercial service, providing a secure cockpit domain with reliable voice and data capabilities. This expands the availability and certification of Iridium Connected aviation solutions for commercial transport aircraft, business aviation, helicopters, private aircraft, and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS).
Using L-band satellite frequencies cockpit communications, Iridium Certus for aviation complements commercial transport passenger cabin connectivity Ka/Ku band services and can be a primary service for small-to-mid-size business jet cabins. It would also be preferred to HF/VHF for electronic flight bag (EFB), flight critical data, and passenger communications during oceanic flights.
Iridium’s partners are introducing a range of multi-tier Iridium Certus solutions that complement other in-flight connectivity (IFC) systems installed on aircraft. Multiple Iridium Value Added Manufacturers (VAMs) and Value-Added Resellers (VARs) are providing a spectrum of Iridium Certus 100 and Iridium Certus 700 solutions. Safety certifications are currently in progress, with flight trials expected to begin by the end of 2023 and approvals expected in 2024, making it a valuable short-term and long-term investment for aircraft operators.
With its satellite network in Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO), Iridium offers weather-resilient L-band connectivity and global coverage versus geostationary (GEO) systems. The flexibility of Iridium Certus service to scale device size, weight, and power (SWaP) allows users to cater to various mission needs. Iridium Certus also makes it affordable for aircraft operators to obtain real-time data from the cockpit, enabling better decision-making and improved operational efficiency.
“Iridium’s first-generation voice and data solutions are installed on over 60,000 aircraft today and have been critical for flight safety and relied upon by pilots and airlines for years,” said John Peterson, executive director of aviation, Iridium. “As the preferred solution for a wide range of aviation applications, from drones to airliners, Iridium Certus is ready to support the industry's evolving connectivity needs.”
