EASA-certified navigation data can also be used for drones and training
Raunheim, Germany | October 5, 2017– Lufthansa Systems today announced that it is expanding its portfolio of navigation solutions with Lido/SkyData. This solution consists of ARINC 424 data and includes navigation information such as airports, heliports, taxiways and runways, waypoints, navaids, airspaces and airways, and flight procedures. The data is updated every 28 days and is available both as a one-time purchase or by subscription. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has certified the data production standards for Lido/SkyData with a Type 1 Letter of Acceptance (LoA).
“Lido/SkyData is a new data service for diverse aviation applications which goes beyond the conventional navigation solutions for airlines,” said Igor Dimnik, Director Strategy and Market Development Lido/Navigation at Lufthansa Systems. “After launching Lido/SurfaceData for avionics manufacturers – the winner of the German Mobility Award – we continue to pursue a strategy of expanding our navigation portfolio with an eye to the future and taking unmanned aircraft into account as well. This enables us to address new customer groups.”
Lido/SkyData contains all ARINC 424 data in an open format so that it can be used for a wide variety of applications, including software solutions for creating simulation environments in-flight simulators or navigation solutions for drones. The data can also be used with flight planning systems from any manufacturer. The open format ensures data compatibility, enabling the data to be tailored individually to the customer’s IT system and applications.
Lido/Navigation solutions are being used by more than 200 airlines and customers of all sizes and business models, including low-cost, network, cargo and charter airlines. Based on regular exchange with customers, Lufthansa Systems continuously optimizes its solutions and works on innovative products that expand its portfolio.
- Rockwell Collins’ acquisition of Pulse.Aero expands the company’s strong passenger processing offerings beyond agent and self-service check-in to include new applications and services.
Annapolis, MD | January 4, 2017– Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) has acquired Pulse.Aero Limited, a UK-based company specializing in self-service bag drop solutions and airline applications, to enhance the company’s passenger processing services for airports and airlines. This acquisition further expands Rockwell Collins’ Information Management Services strategy to enable the connected aviation ecosystem.
“As passengers seek to take more control of their travel experience, this acquisition expands our portfolio of self-service passenger processing solutions, enabling us to streamline and simplify the passenger journey through a fully connected airport”
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“As passengers seek to take more control of their travel experience, this acquisition expands our portfolio of self-service passenger processing solutions, enabling us to streamline and simplify the passenger journey through a fully connected airport,” said Dave Nieuwsma, senior vice president, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins.
Pulse.Aero’s products and services will be integrated into the Airport Systems portfolio of Rockwell Collins’ Information Management Services business.
The self-service bag drop market is experiencing significant growth due to the benefits it provides both airports and passengers. Airports can increase passenger throughput without capital expenditure on building and facilities, and passengers can move through the airport check-in process more quickly and efficiently.
Rockwell Collins and Pulse.Aero have worked together on several successful deployments, including Dublin Airport, where new self-bag drop units were installed, reducing queue times and improving customer service.
Watch a video to see how Rockwell Collins’ self-bag drop solution has impacted Aer Lingus’ operations at Dublin Airport: https://youtu.be/OG_4zANwLXo.
Annapolis, MD | November 21, 2016– Aegean Airlines is now experiencing the operational benefits of air-to-ground data link communications using Rockwell Collins’ ARINC GLOBALink℠.
The new GLOBALink implementation is enabling the airline to become more efficient by using data link messages to improve departure control and turnaround, send and receive real-time aircraft and engine data to improve maintenance operations and upload gate connection information to aircraft inflight entertainment displays to enhance the passenger experience.
“Adding data link capability to our fleet will further enhance the effectiveness of our operation and help to improve service to our customers,” said Nikos Panagiotopoulos, Operations Manager, at Aegean. “Our crews and passengers will highly benefit from the options that data link offers. Rockwell Collins is a valuable partner that was able to provide complete end-to-end support including avionics configuration, air-ground routing and integration with our back office systems in a very short implementation time.”
“Aegean Airlines has been highly successful even in the face of very challenging global economic conditions,” said Alexis Hickox, head of global sales, Commercial Aviation for Rockwell Collins. “It’s clear that their investment in services like ARINC GLOBALink is enhancing operations today and for the future.”
- First airport in Myanmar to implement ARINC vMUSE common use passenger processing solution
Singapore | October 25, 2016– Mandalay International Airport (MDL) passengers will realize an enhanced check-in experience with the implementation of a new passenger processing system from Rockwell Collins.
Under the terms of the agreement with MC-Jalux Airport Services Co., Ltd. (MJAS), the group that operates MDL, Rockwell Collins is providing its ARINC vMUSETM Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) solutions at the airport, the second largest in Myanmar.
“Myanmar is a growing tourist and business destination with a variety of attractions and opportunities,” said Futoshi Hiroi, vice president, COO and CFO of MJAS. “By using the latest airport technology from Rockwell Collins, we are better able to attract airlines and travelers to the northern part of our country. This implementation of ARINC vMUSE makes it easier for travelers to reach the destinations they want to experience, helping develop our tourism industry.”
The new contract also includes the use of Rockwell Collins’ ARINC AviNet® network and message solution which provides a secure, fast and efficient way to communicate flight operation, aircraft maintenance and other critical messages that have a direct impact on airline operational efficiency.
“Being able to improve the passenger experience while also enabling MDL to support multiple airline check-in applications running concurrently on the same workstation makes ARINC vMUSE a powerful technology for airports looking to provide the best service to their passengers and airlines,” said Paul Hickox, head of Airport Systems Sales for Rockwell Collins.
IFExpress: John, we assume you will be moving to the Chicago area… any expectations? Any trepidations?
J.W.: “Yes, I have relocated to the Chicago area and am thrilled to be joining my colleagues here to start launching the 2Ku era. As for trepidations, having spent the last eight winters in Colorado, I’m not quite sure what Chicago winters will bring, less skiing I’m sure.”
IFExpress: Regarding your new areas of responsibility (operations, quality control, commercial airline account management and commercial sales) which do you think will give you the most challenges and which the most enjoyment?
J.W.: “The role in itself will present many challenges as well as enjoyment across all departments as we begin the journey of rolling out 2Ku to our airline partners. Making sure that deployment goes as smoothly as possible is a large part of my new role as COO.
Over the years, I have discovered I have a natural love for optimizing operations within organizations and am really looking forward to leading those functions within Gogo’s commercial aviation business.
For one of my challenges, I’d say learning to manage the folks in sales, as I used to be one myself.
Putting in place the foundation of 2Ku for our airline partners that have clearly recognized 2Ku’s operational excellence is certainly the most exciting challenge. More than 1,200 aircraft across 12 airlines have made commitments to this technology that will change the face of air travel on a global scale. To be leading that innovation is not only a huge milestone at Gogo, but in aviation as well.”
IFEXpress: From a bigger perspective, can you: A. give our readers the today view of Gogo, B. tomorrow’s view under your new leadership, and C. the product view of the next 5 years at Gogo.
J.W.: “Right now is really a very exciting time for Gogo. As the summer travel season comes to an end for the airlines, we are truly stepping into full 2Ku production mode. By the end of the year, we have committed to having 75+ 2Ku aircraft installed and into 2017 and 2018, we’ll be ramping up production quite a bit to get through our backlog of 1,200 aircraft. Given how quickly the airline industry has taken to 2Ku and recognized its technological advantages, I expect in the next five years that we will announce many global partnerships for 2Ku. Additionally, we will continue to expand our product offerings, focus on bringing the connected aircraft to life and develop our next generation regional ATG network that will be a big benefit to both CA (commercial aviation) and BA (business aviation).”
IFExpress: We understand that is some markets (biz jet?), Gogo offers a text/data service (low speed), why is that not offered for a low cost solution for the many users who want minimum service on a commercial service airplane?
J.W.: “We actually do have a messaging pass for commercial aviation (CA) passengers. For CA, this messaging application enables passengers to stay in touch with the ground with popular messaging applications including iMessage, WhatsApp, Viber, etc. If passengers are T-Mobile customers, they can also take advantage of free in-flight texting on all Gogo equipped flights.
For BA and CA both, the service actually works on high speed networks. In general, we think that low speed networks will become increasingly more focused on the cockpit v. passenger services.”
IFExpress: Can you tell our readers a little about how the business aviation market differs from the commercial airline market and do you envision entering other markets like military, etc.?
J. W.: “If there is one major differentiator between BA and CA it’s in the size of the fuselage hence the antenna technologies which are applicable. With Gogo’s range of products for both BA and CA, Gogo is extremely well positioned to service both markets.
In terms of BA vs CA, from an operations perspective, there are striking similarities with the big difference being access to aircraft. Commercial airlines are not keen on taking planes down to change technologies, which creates challenges when you are delivering new technologies. But there are definitely more similarities than differences.”
In closing, John told IFExpress; “While I’ve had a lot of fun over the last eight years managing the BA group, I’m realizing my real passion is in the big airplane world. It’s truly great to be back in the airline world once again and I’m looking forward to seeing all my old friends in Singapore.”
digEcor:
With over 30 years in the aviation industry, Jorge Mompo has joined the digEcor team as the new Director North, Latin America and Caribbean Sales. Mompo will be based in the America’s office in Springville, Utah and will be handling all Sales and Marketing activities in the Americas’ region. Jorge began his aviation career in the areas of Business Aviation Technical and Support, subsequently moving into IFE where he held diverse Engineering and Sales & Marketing positions in companies including Sony Trans Com, Panasonic and Lumexis, serving mainly the Americas. Mompo commented, “There are numerous growth opportunities in the Region where digEcor’s comprehensive integrated flight experience suite of products for IFE and cabin will be a perfect fit for current and future needs. I’m looking forward to continuing my close working relationships with all the customers in the Americas Region encompassing Airlines, OEMs and MROs.” Jorge will be at Singapore at the digEcor booth and you can contact him here: +1 (305) 781-9798 Mobile – +1 (801) 691-7257 Office
Thales/SES:
Thales, a global leader in space, avionics, and connected inflight entertainment, announces two milestone agreements with SES, the world’s leading satellite operator. With these agreements, Thales will offer airlines and their passengers FlytLIVE, the most efficient inflight connectivity experience over the Americas. FlytLIVE by Thales will start operating mid 2017 using in-orbit satellites. Thales signed an agreement with SES for tailor made connectivity services over the Americas optimized for commercial aviation.
With FlytLIVE, inflight connectivity solution, airlines will receive the best connection speeds for passengers and passenger entertainment using Ka-band HTS, they claim.
Two currently in-orbit satellites comprise the initial network for the Americas; a third satellite provided by Thales Alenia Space – will be launched in 2020 to meet anticipated market growth over the Americas.
(Editor’s Note: IFExpress will have more on this deal soon.)
Other Aviation:
- ARINC, AEEC, Rockwell Collins are putting on their big show in Toulouse France this year (Oct. 13 – 14) and a couple meetings caught our eye – specifically 7E Next Generation Cabin Data Bus and New ARINC Global Aeronautical Distress Safety System. Here is more info – ARINC Industry Activities | AEEC | Upcoming Mid-Term | Meeting Material | Drafts for Adoption Consideration
- The FAA says don’t turn on or charge your Samsung’s new Note 7 on an airplane! FAA Warns Airline Passengers Not To Use Samsung Smartphone The Wireless Week reported: “There have been dozens of aircraft fires caused by lithium batteries, so many that the batteries are no longer welcome as cargo on passenger flights. In one of the most recent incidents, a Fiji Airways Boeing 737 was preparing for takeoff from Melbourne, Australia, when smoke was discovered coming from the cargo bay. The plane was evacuated and the cargo unloaded. The source of the fire turned out to be lithium-ion batteries in a passenger’s checked bags. Hoverboards and e-cigarettes are banned from flights for the same reason.” Here is another article on the subject.
- If you get a new iPhone (7) but you have earphones with a jack… no worries on board. Just get a Lightening Dock… or, here are four other solutions 5 Ways To Use Headphones With iPhone 7 And iPhone 7 Plus | Redmond Pie and use those jacked earphones!
IFPL:
OK, AS9100 Certification may not seem like a big deal to you (and we had to look it up) but it turns out that in aviation, quality management is a very big deal… with every airplane part! So, you might ask, what can be so difficult about setting up a Quality Assurance program? Plenty, in fact we counted well over 200 action items, systems, documents, records, developments, implements and more actions need to complete the certification. In fact, if you want to finally see what all this “quality” certification means, check out this “easy” outline of the cert actions
Notes IFPL: “IFPL are delighted to have achieved certification to AS9100C. This is a key stage in the develop- ment of IFPL and demonstrates that our Management Systems are mature and robust. IFPL recognizes that compliance with quality accreditations forms the foundations of their business success. Quality is in the DNA of the company culture, engaging employees to continually improve systems and products to benefit our customer satisfaction.
IFPL’s facility is based on the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of the UK. The leadership team at IFPL ensures that the management system activities are carried out in accordance with the Quality Management System, the European Aviation Safety Agency requirements of EASA Part 21G and the newly awarded International Aerospace Standard AS9100C.”
They went on to say, “Quality, reliability, and safety are critical values for the aerospace industry. The BSI only award the certificate once their rigorous and stringent criteria has been met. Both of these certifications high- light IFPL’s commitment to meeting and exceeding the increasingly stringent industry requirements for aerospace related products and assures our manufacturing processes consistently meet or exceed the requirements and expectations of customers presenting the most challenging of applications.” And, in case you didn’t know, CEO Geoff Underwood founded IFPL almost 20 years ago and it has the largest portfolio of proven IFEC products and services in its sector. They are proud to supply the world’s leading inline manufacturers and airlines, who have come to rely on them to provide inspiration to the enhancement of their passengers’ experience; delivered through their innovative product design and proven reputation for reliability. For more information on the IFPL products check out the following link: IFPL – Connecting Your Passengers
Gogo:
1. 2Ku is now up and flying across three airline partners – Aeromexico, Delta and Virgin Atlantic
2. 2Ku is installed on about a dozen aircraft
3. Gogo has now received six STCs to install the technology on various aircraft types
4. By the end of 2016 Gogo expects to have 75-100 2Ku installations. For 2017 that number increases to 350-450 and in 2018 increases again to 500-700 install.
5.Gogo was selected by Delta Private Jets to equip its feet of >70 business jets with Gogo Biz 4G inflight connectivity for 2Q17.
6. Want see something cool? Watch this Gogo 2Ku hardware installation on a GOL B737-800 – Gogo Inflight Internet Video: Behind the scenes with the first Gogo 2Ku installation on GOL – Gogo Concourse
Inmarsat:
At the end of June, Inmarsat has announced that its advanced Global Xpress (GX) Aviation in-flight connectivity service has been certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the Airbus A320 aircraft family, bringing it a step closer to being available as line-fit or retrofit on every major Airbus and Boeing airframe. Here is a link for more information – GX Aviation certified for Airbus A320 aircraft – Inmarsat
OTHER (somewhat related) NEWS
1. We have to thank Bill Baltra for this one. Have you heard about ModoBag. Yep, you ride your bag now, and if you don’t believe it, check out this video – Modobag: World’s First Motorized, Rideable Luggage! – YouTube We contacted them but there was no response. you be the judge of their product if it achieves acceptability; besides, it might not look too cool in a skirt! Cruise the airport on top of a piece of motorized luggage
2. This may explain today’s aircraft Wi-Fi usage: Major study links low internet usage to slow broadband – BBC News
3. IFExpress recently asked Rich Salter (Engineering Consultant) about issues involved with security and IFEC and he had 3 points for your consideration:
a. There is an ARINC group addressing onboard cyber-security, and see the presentation made by Boeing’s Derek Schatz at a recent ARINC CSS meeting.
b. Panasonic has begun a partnership with hackers: Continuing what its Director of Security Engineering and Information Security Officer Michael Dierickx called a proactive approach to security, Panasonic Avionics Corporation developed a bug bounty program through HackerOne. The program is aimed at bolstering security of Panasonic’s inflight entertainment systems.
While the announcement coincided with the start of the Black Hat conference in Las Vegas, the company will kick off the bug bounty program at the DefCon Conference later this week and will extend an invitation to participate to what Dierickx referred to as a select group of hackers.”We have extensive processes in place to identify potential and emerging vulnerabilities, and we also engage with security consultation firms who provide penetration testing and other services,” Dierickx said in a release. “Still, these teams bring a fresh perspective and innovative ways to search for potential issues.” (Editor’s Note: More on this next week.)
c. And we had an FAA man present on security at the last Tech Conference.
Finally, We should mention what the feds say about aviation security – this may be VERY timely: Securing the NextGen aviation network
4. If you are Traveling to the US, you might have to cough up your online presence! – Traveling to US? Agencies want to Spy on your Social Media activities right from Airport and Attention US-bound tourists: Social media accounts subject to inspection
5. SpeedNews reports: INMARSAT conducted survey that found 92% of airline pax would like to access onboard connectivity; 54% over inflight meals.
6. See if you are getting old by analyzing your travel messaging:
What is the impact of text and messaging apps on travel? | Hotel Management
7. Go ahead, spend the money on a good set of headphones: On airplanes, good headphones make good neighbors – Elliott
And lastly, we want to tell you about a publication that we think is really useful and incredibly data rich – it’s called Airline Weekly and it is delivered by the internet each Monday. The Weekly is usually 12 pages long and covers airline/airport happenings worldwide. The Weekly is a subscriber-supported publication, paid for by readers who want a more interesting, more valuable read about the airline business. Each Monday, Airline Weekly reports who’s flying where, new marketing approaches, fleet, finance and key airline and airport data. And most importantly, Airline Weekly readers will enjoy insightful analysis and new ideas found nowhere else. For example, the weekly sections include: Weekly News Review, Fleet Info, Finance, Marketing, Airports, Environment, Routes & Networks, and Around the World. If you want worldwide airline info, this publication is the one… and, they will give you a few free publications for your evaluation. Get it! Airline Weekly – Shouldn’t a publication about an interesting industry be, well, interesting?
Also, you might want to check out their weekly podcast. It is a great weekly update.
Singapore | July 26, 2016– Passengers using Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) can now check in faster due to the implementation of Rockwell Collins’ new ARINC vMUSE™ mobile passenger processing solution. IGI, India’s busiest airport and the largest in South Asia, is the first airport to implement ARINC vMUSE, which gives airlines the ability to check in travelers wherever and whenever needed.
“‘Passenger delight’ is a driving principle that has helped shape our company, services, goals and all that we stand for today,” said Jeewan Khulbe, Head of IT at Delhi International Airport Ltd. “ARINC vMUSE mobile from Rockwell Collins is a way to improve the passenger experience and to provide our airports with cutting-edge solutions when traditional systems are not enough.”
ARINC vMUSE mobile enables airline and ground handling agents to utilize a tablet-based application to check in passengers from anywhere in an airport. Key reasons IGI selected ARINC vMUSE mobile include:
- Providing the airport with a cost effective way to accommodate its rapid growth without additional infrastructure.
- Enabling the airport to help airlines reduce queues during winter months when weather can cause irregular operations due to flight disruptions.
- Providing a specialized check-in tool that enables airlines to offer an added level of service, like off airport check in or seat upgrades, for elite passengers.
“IGI understands the value that these new technologies will bring–especially improving operations,” said Paul Hickox, head of Airport System Sales for Rockwell Collins. “It is one of the many reasons IGI has repeatedly been honored by industry groups as one of the world’s leading airports for both quality and customer service.”
Since 2009, IGI has benefitted from the implementation of Rockwell Collins’ ARINC airport solutions. In addition to ARINC vMUSE mobile, the airport has deployed ARINC vMUSE™, ARINC SelfServ™ Kiosks, ARINC VeriPax™ Passenger Reconciliation System and ARINC BagLink™ for baggage messaging to facilitate passenger processing and reduce congestion.
Annapolis, MD | May 23, 2016– In a series of recent network tests, Rockwell Collins has validated the performance of Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX (JX) network as well as a number of its own value-added services.
Rockwell Collins is a value-added reseller of the Jet ConneX service as part of its ARINCDirectSM offering. Jet ConneX is expected to be available globally in mid-2016, and will support high-speed internet via Inmarsat’s next generation of satellites, the Inmarsat-5s (I-5) over the Ka-band, which have more capacity, are globally available and are highly efficient in the use of bandwidth.
“JX from Inmarsat is poised to provide business jet passengers with the highest connectivity speeds available,” said David Stanley, vice president, ARINCDirect Cabin Services for Rockwell Collins. “Along with higher speeds and greater bandwidth, we are excited to offer a number of value-added applications that will enhance the passenger experience even further.”
New value-added applications and services available from Rockwell Collins’ ARINCDirect include:
- AD Wi-Fi call and text: An app that allows passengers to place and receive calls and texts on their personal cell phone, using their own number, anywhere in the world. The app utilizes broadband service connections from the aircraft.
- Content filtering: The ARINCDirect Content Filter is a firewall security for Jet ConneX operators. It enables flight operations to control the onboard Internet experience by allowing the freedom to customize a filtering program to meet a passenger’s particular needs.
In addition to cabin connectivity services, ARINCDirect provides business aviation operators with the single most comprehensive portfolio of flight support solutions in the industry including flight planning, regional and international trip support and flight operations management.
We continue this week with some interesting people and products we saw during AIX in Hamburg at Astronics and Rockwell Collins.
Astronics:
When you were at AIX you surely would have seen the latest ‘lightweight’ inseat power system from the folks at Astronics. What really caught our attention was the weight of the ‘Direct Current Power Supply’ itself – but we will save that data for the Astronics spokesperson, Ken Adwan, Senior Business Development Manager, who told IFExpress: “The DCPS is actually capable of supporting (30) USB outputs operating at 2.1 Amp simultaneously. The zone-based DCPS, which provides DC power to the seats weighs in at 3.8 lb. (nominal). The result is that a typical narrow body system, providing (175) total High Output USB Power ports to the passenger seats will have a shipset weight and price that are 30% to 40% lower than a traditional seat-based power supply architecture. That system would be comprised of a total of (8) zone-based DCPS units.” (Be sure to check out the high level system graphic for the USB UltraLite system and data sheet for the P/N 1375-2 DC Power Supply Unit (DCPS).) What really caught IFExpress’s attention was the statement on the data sheet: “Power conversion efficiency greater that 85%,”…and that has to be some kind of record for an airborne AC to DC converter. Typically they run about 80% or less!
Rockwell Collins:
“Hi there, I’m Jeff Sare” was our first introduction to the new Vice President, Sales & Marketing Air Transport Cabin Solutions Commercial Systems at the Rockwell Collins booth. IFExpress was told: “We were really impressed with Jeff when he was a consultant to Rockwell Collins and we brought him on board to help out the IFEC efforts. Jeff brings a wealth of industry knowledge about in-flight entertainment and connectivity solutions, an area of growing interest for airlines to keep up with fast-changing passenger requirements,” said Scott Gunnufson, Vice President, Commercial Sales, Marketing and Support at Rockwell Collins. Further, from the Rockwell Collins news release about Jeff; “For more than two decades, Sare has served in a number of leadership roles in the air transport in-flight entertainment (IFE) and connectivity marketplace, from IFE manufacturers and connectivity providers to airline marketing. In his new role, Sare will lead a sales and marketing team focused on Rockwell Collins’ complete portfolio of PAVES IFE and connectivity solutions that meet the passenger engagement needs of any airline, including seat-centric IFE, broadcast and wireless IFE, high-speed broadband connectivity, moving map and passenger services systems,” stated the company. We note, Jeff is a very pleasant, easy to talk to person and we encourage folks in our industry to say hello.
During the interview, we asked where the IFE industry is heading and Jeff indicated the following: “IFE seems to have stabilized. We are seeing appropriate and significant growth in both wide and narrow body aircraft markets. At the same time, IFE Wi-Fi growth is also explosive. The demand for connectivity and some control over your environment is on fire. There is a demand for end-to-end connection to the passenger. Further, new technology opens up new opportunities. B-2-B is driving innovations that help airlines manage their business. Our customers are the airlines… full stop!”
“Rockwell Collins’ inseat video has gone into service line fit at both OEMs. In-seat availability is running near 100%. In fact, Biman Bangladesh launched in late November 2015 and they are flying at 99.98% – the .02% was a pinched wire,” said Sare.
We also asked about IFE in the aviation ecosystem and Mr. Sare went on: “There are two business case studies worth mentioning: What Apple did was to build an entire ecosystem that explained their vision for the iPhone and what it could do – think apps here,” he noted. “Further, Tesla is doing the same in the automotive industry.” The company sees that solution, and Jeff implied that Rockwell Collins will take advantage of their IFE solution, and with their acquisition of ARINC, will leverage the aviation communication platform. He went on to say: “There are fourteen thousand commercial aircraft, some five thousand business jets, one thousand airports and some three hundred and sixty airlines in this environment… Rockwell Collins sits in the middle of this aviation ecosystem.” We get it!
We should also note that Rockwell Collins was awarded an Airbus supplier trophy for “Cabin BFE Supplier Support in 2015” at Aircraft Interiors and the team was rightfully proud of their efforts in winning. The awards followed Airbus’s supplier support rating process, which drew in-service feedback from more than 133 of Airbus customers worldwide.” The news release also said, ‘Rockwell Collins, which was also top ranked in the category last year by Airbus customers, was credited for its ability to continuously provide reliable equipment and complementary technical support, its effectiveness of operational support services and finally, customer feedback on cost of ownership.”
If you didn’t get the big picture, one of the big Rockwell Collins focuses is on data. They note: “By 2030, the number of active air transport and business aircraft is expected to grow to 85,000 (Editor’s Note: Given that today there are around 30,000) – with 80 percent of those equipped with new information-management systems. These developments are making a seamless secure and integrated aviation ecosphere a reality.” Aviation and information, two pre-separated words, now have a reality that Rockwell Collins see’s as a future reality. The flow of data along with the future is where Rockwell Collins is placing their bets. Here is a list of future information solutions they see:
1. Intuitive, information-enabled flight decks and aircraft that use data from on-board and external sources to provide new levels of analysis and awareness for pilots, airlines and manufacturers
2. Cabin solutions that change the paradigm from passenger entertainment to passenger engagement while helping airlines achieve their goals
3. Airport operations that streamline passenger processing, increase efficiencies and enhance revenue
4. A robust and flexible network that pairs bandwidth to manage information across the aviation ecosphere with the necessary security to keep our passengers and our airspace safe.
5. A future airspace that leverages the flow of shared information to address the congestion of today with a new model of aircraft and airspace management.
So, if information is the future of aviation data, then they expect massive amounts to infect our aviation space – Massive Amounts! This includes maintenance, scheduling, freight, airplane performance, and much more in networks on and off the aircraft. Rockwell Collins has four Principles when it comes to handling all this data:
Principle 1. Match the Right Data With the Channel.
Principle 2. Interoperability Matters.
Principle 3. Make the Best Use of Data.
Principle 4. Peace of Mind is Paramount.
We also wish to point out the paramount importance of security, and when this subject is addressed by Rockwell Collins, they say: “As systems become increasingly interconnected, interdependent cyber security has become a growing concern in civil aviation. Network security threats are diverse and persistent; a large part of the data that traverses private aviation networks is sensitive and relates to passengers’ reservations.”
They go on: “In this environment, security is essential Today, private aviation networks like those from Rockwell Collins are outfitted with multiple firewalls and security mechanisms to ensure that the security of critical communications is airtight, and that policies and protections align with IATA security rules and mandates. As we explore new channels of communication to meet the needs of the information age, we must ensure that they can support those same levels of security at every moment of transmission.” We couldn’t agree more.
Further they state: “But peace of mind goes beyond ensuring messages are protected at every point of transmission – it’s also about ensuring the information arrives at its intended destination in a timely manner. Even as our industry embraces new technology like ACARS over IP and standardized, web-based applications like XML Web Services, we believe the curation of message delivery is a critical component of information management – knowing exactly where a message is at any given moment, and if something goes wrong, where that error occurred and what backups are available to ensure the message arrives at its destination.”
In conclusion, Rockwell Collins notes: “In aviation’s information age, an ever-increasing volume of data streams across the sky and around the earth. Developing faster ways to transmit, store, process and access that information – leveraging the latest ground- and satellite-based communications technologies – will be necessary to ensure our industry can take full advantage of the opportunities ahead.” Stay Tuned In on this one as aviation data will be taking a big uptick of storage and connectivity in the future… for almost every reason!
Other News:
- If you have not been following TMF Associates Blog, you might start here: TMF Associates blog » The exploding inflight connectivity market?
- You might want to watch “The Age of Aerospace,” a multi-piece aviation documentary sponsored by Boeing… now on YouTube
- If you are planning on attending EXPO Asia and APEX in Singapore at the end of October, be sure to check out the ‘View Location Map‘… and bring your credit card because the Ferrari dealership is a short walk away!
- If you are in charge of airline food, you probably want to see what foods are trending in favor and declining. Here is a good source of info: Google Food Trends Report. And yes, it might be true in your kitchen as well!
- We got an interesting email recently that went: Per the following link, I have a few questions:
- I wonder if Airbus also invested in BOC’s aircraft leasing firm?
- Does an investment in BOC give Boeing an advantage when selling airplanes into China? (Duh!)
- Is this the cost of doing business, i.e. selling airplanes, in China?
In answer to the above we found the following:1. China will become the “single-most important market” for plane-leasing companies over the next five years, Domhnal Slattery, chief executive officer of Dublin-based lessor Avolon Holdings Ltd., said in an April Interview.2. Coy as ever, Cook’s somewhat cryptic remarks naturally led to an avalanche of speculation, particularly given rumors that Apple is developing its own electric car. Other commentators took the position that Apple’s investment was simply an old-fashioned way to curry favor with the Chinese government. (Check out the full article here)
- High Frequency Data Link offers true global coverage for leading Middle Eastern carrier
Dubai, UAE | November 8, 2015– Royal Jordanian Airlines is now using Rockwell Collins’ ARINC GLOBALink to provide primary communications for its fleet of aircraft. The airline, based in Amman, provides service to Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and throughout the Middle East.
“We fly extensively across desert and oceanic routes, so we needed a communications network with global coverage,” said Royal Jordanian’s President/CEO Captain Suleiman Obeidat. “Our aircraft are High Frequency Data Link (HFDL) enabled, and the Rockwell Collins ARINC GLOBALink offering includes HF connectivity. Overall, we found the suite of Rockwell Collins’ solutions to be extremely cost effective and capable of meeting our expansion strategy.”
Royal Jordanian is using Rockwell Collins’ entire suite of ARINC GLOBALink services, including Very High Frequency (VHF), SATCOM, and HFDL to meet the airline’s diverse range of aviation communication needs. The airline is also using Rockwell Collins OpCenter web-based messaging solution and future plans call for the implementation of the company’s Web Aircraft Situational Display (WebASD) to enable global flight tracking.
“The significant expansion of our ARINC global network in Europe, the Middle East and Africa announced earlier this year was a key factor in enabling us to provide the comprehensive coverage that Royal Jordanian and other airlines in this region need,” said Mike DiGeorge, vice president, Commercial Aviation and Networks for Rockwell Collins. “Royal Jordanian is the first Middle Eastern carrier to select Rockwell Collins as its primary provider, and we anticipate more airlines in the region following its lead.”
- ARINC vMUSE mobile provides flexible check-in capabilities for airlines
Las Vegas, Nevada | September 9, 2015– Lufthansa passengers will be able to check-in faster at the airport due to the implementation of Rockwell Collins’ new ARINC vMUSE™ mobile passenger processing solution. Lufthansa is the first airline to implement this new technology, which gives it the ability to check-in travelers wherever and whenever needed.
ARINC vMUSE mobile is the first entirely mobile common-use passenger processing (CUPPS) compliant solution for the aviation industry. The solution enables airlines, airports and ground handlers to use a tablet-based application to launch passenger check-in service in minutes, wherever there is an internet connection.
“ARINC vMUSE mobile is ideal for airlines and their crews because it provides the same security and reliability of our traditional IATA-compliant CUPPS, but does not require any installation time, software configuration, telecommunications lines or added technical resources,” said Christopher Forrest, vice president of Global Airports for Rockwell Collins. “It is an ideal solution for queue-busting when unexpected events impact scheduled operations, or to offer an added level of service for elite passengers.”
“We want to create a positive experience for our customers while making our operations as efficient as possible,” said Gerald Prokasky, Director, Passenger Check-in & Baggage at Lufthansa. “ARINC vMUSE mobile helps us do both: it enables our agents to go where our customers are—whether to reduce lines at the airport or enable check-in at an offsite location like a hotel. And, because it does not require a significant investment in infrastructure, it is a cost effective solution for our airline.”
Partnership with Cobham, Rockwell Collins and L2 Consulting Services
United Kingdom | June 9, 2015– Inmarsat (LSE: ISAT.L), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, today announced that Hawaiian Airlines is now the first commercial airline to fly with its SwiftBroadband Safety service on its Boeing 767-300 fleet. The first flight took place on June 3 after the Supplemental Type Certificate for the service was awarded.
Highlights
• Enables the fast and efficient transfer of ‘Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System’ (ACARS) data messages using Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband connectivity via a secure, dedicated ‘pipe’ to the cockpit
• Rockwell Collins’ ARINC service delivered through Cobham SATCOM AVIATOR terminal, installed by L2 Consulting Services
• An FAA Supplemental Type Certification allows the service to be used on Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 767-300 aircraft
• Service expected to be commercially available from Q1 2016
The SwiftBroadband-based service also supports flight deck voice services and provides dedicated IP connectivity to the cockpit, enabling access to new applications, which can increase safe and efficient operations in oceanic airspace, such as Electronic Flight Bags and flight data transmission. It can also transmit four-dimensional position reports, enabling airlines to meet the ICAO mandate for sub-15 minute tracking of all aircraft.
SwiftBroadband Safety will provide an enhanced version of Inmarsat’s Classic Aero service, enabling Air Navigation Service Providers and Air Traffic Management to receive and transmit data and messages, such as ‘Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Contract’ (ADS-C) and ‘Controller Pilot Datalink Communications’ (CPDLC), faster and more efficiently. More than 10,000 commercial aircraft currently use Inmarsat Classic Aero services for secure communications.
Captain Mary McMillan, Inmarsat Aviation’s Vice President for Safety and Operational Services, commented: “This first commercial flight of a SwiftBroadband Safety equipped aircraft will be a key milestone in the launch of this exciting new safety service. We are very proud that the trials have been conducted in collaboration with a leading airline like Hawaiian, and of our successful partnership with aviation technology pioneers Rockwell Collins, Cobham and L2.
“The service is part of our long-term commitment to continuous innovation and investment to meet the growing demand for quality broadband to the aircraft and the cockpit, and to improve safety and efficiency in oceanic airspace. This is the first time air navigation service providers are able to experience the performance of the terminal, using our leading satellite communications offering.”
Kim Gram, Vice President of Cobham SATCOM’s aeronautical business unit, said: “We are very pleased to announce this significant STC, which allows communication of ACARS data over SwiftBroadband, and means we can continue with the scheduled installation of the Cobham systems on the rest of the HAL fleet and enables us to measure the quality of the communication and present this information to the authorities to attain a formal approval of SBB as a safety service. SBB has previously only been a service for cabin entertainment, which is why this agreement with HAL is important in successfully proving the benefits of SBB satcom with ACARS data capability to the cockpit, such as increased bandwidth capabilities for air traffic control and operational capabilities to the cockpit. Using SwiftBroadband IP connectivity for all domains of the aircraft will provide safer and more efficient flights.”
“Rockwell Collins is proud to be involved in enabling another aviation first for flight safety as well as helping our vision of the connected aircraft become a reality,” said David Poltorak, Vice President, Aviation and Network Services for Rockwell Collins. “Beyond enhancing safety, the growth of broadband connectivity for the flight deck will provide exciting opportunities to bring new flight-enhancing operations and cockpit services to airlines. Many of these services will require significant amounts of data to be delivered to and from the aircraft, which we are well positioned to handle now and in the future.”
“SwiftBroadband Safety will have a significant impact on our flight operations,”said Ken Rewick, Vice President of flight operations for Hawaiian Airlines. “In addition to gaining an upgraded path to FANS (Future Air Navigation System), we’re also in a position to implement Electronic Flight Bag and Airline Operational Communication applications such as timely weather updates, reroutes and fuel planning over a broadband channel. As a long time Rockwell Collins customer, we are pleased to be using the ARINC aviation communications network to enable this important evaluation.”
Mark Lebovitz, president of L2 Consulting Services, said; “We are motivated to support improved aviation safety services, so we developed a Supplemental Type Certification to approve the new high speed Inmarsat datalink and position reporting communication option.”
The service now begins the phase of in-use monitoring allowing Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) to assess performance against the ICAO ‘GOLD’ FANS datalink standard. This assessment is made under the auspices of the FAA PARC group and, as further operators become equipped, in other ICAO regional groups. ESA provided essential support to the work programme in its development phase.
Annapolis, MD. | June 9, 2015– Rockwell Collins announced that its ARINC aviation communications network is playing a central role in enabling Hawaiian Airlines’ operational evaluation of the Future Air Navigation Systems (FANS) using Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband (SBB) service.
SBB enables voice and ACARS/FANS data transmissions when aircraft are flying over oceans, improving safety and efficiency in oceanic airspace.
“Rockwell Collins is proud to be involved in enabling another aviation first for flight safety as well as helping our vision of the connected aircraft become a reality,” said David Poltorak, vice president, Aviation and Network Services for Rockwell Collins. “Beyond enhancing safety, the growth of broadband connectivity for the flight deck will provide exciting opportunities to bring new flight-enhancing operations and cockpit services to airlines. Many of these services will require significant amounts of data to be delivered to and from the aircraft, which we are well positioned to handle now and in the future.”
“SwiftBroadband Safety will have a significant impact on our flight operations,” said Ken Rewick, vice president of flight operations for Hawaiian Airlines. “In addition to gaining an upgraded path to FANS, we’re also in a position to implement Electronic Flight Bag and Airline Operational Communication applications such as timely weather updates, reroutes and fuel planning over a broadband channel. As a long time Rockwell Collins customer, we are pleased to be using the ARINC aviation communications network to enable this important evaluation.”
“This will be the first time the industry, and particularly the air navigation service providers, will be able to experience the performance of the Rockwell Collins service via the Cobham terminal utilizing our leading satellite communications offering,” said Mary McMillan, vice president of Safety and Operational Services at Inmarsat. “We’re very pleased to be partnering with these leaders in the aviation technology and service business to bring this revolutionary new service to airlines.”
The trial is being conducted for the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Performance-based operations Aviation Rulemaking Committee (PARC) Communications Working Group (CWG).
Rockwell Collins is the Inmarsat SBB service provider for the evaluation. The Rockwell Collins ARINC aviation communications network establishes the links and provides a managed service between the Inmarsat ground stations that enable the aircraft to seamlessly communicate and exchange ACARS, CPDLC and IP connectivity with Hawaiian Airlines’ host systems, ground crews and regulatory agencies anywhere in the world without interruption.
- New contracts with Korea Airports Corporation and T’Way Air solidify the company’s leadership position in Korea
Seoul, Korea | June 4, 2015– In two separate agreements, Rockwell Collins’ ARINC GLOBALinkSM has been selected by Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) and Korea’s T’Way Air.
KAC, the service provider for airline and civil aviation communications in Korea, chose Rockwell Collins to implement an advanced air-to-ground aviation communications network to support the country’s growing aviation communication requirements. T’way Air, South Korea’s fastest growing airline, will use Rockwell Collins’ ARINC GLOBALink for its air-to-ground data link communications.
“Our expertise in communications messaging combined with our understanding of the Korean market ideally positions Rockwell Collins to provide these two leading organizations with robust solutions for their aviation communication needs,” said Heament John Kurian, managing director, IMS Asia Pacific for Rockwell Collins. “These two significant contracts mark another key milestone in our successful strategy to invest and grow our business in the country and throughout the entire region.”
For KAC, the network Rockwell Collins is developing will leverage the Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS®) to provide pre-departure clearance (PDC) and digital automatic terminal information service (D-ATIS) message, and will use Very High Frequency (VHF) Digital Link Mode 2 (VDL Mode 2), which is 10 times the capacity of traditional systems.
While typically VDL messages are routed through a global network of thousands of ground stations, the network Rockwell Collins is implementing will allow certain messages, like Air Traffic Control, to stay within Korea, just like a private network. This will provide KAC with the high level of security, reliability and speed it requires.
Rockwell Collins’ ARINC GLOBALink and other value added services will help T’Way Air to enhance real-time, accurate communications and to provide the important information and reports pilots use to increase operational safety and efficiency. “Now, we can provide real time data relevant to flight safety and customer service with pilots in command efficiently. We are proud of using Rockwell Collins to monitor aircraft situations on the ground and support passengers satisfactorily such as other premium airline companies,” said Yu Keun-Tae, director of Operations Control Center, T’Way Air Co., Ltd. “ARINC GLOBALink enables many of our aircraft’s standard air traffic control requests to be automated, improving safety and efficiency, which is good for our airline and our customers.”
With this latest agreement, all of Korea’s major low-cost carriers are now using ARINC GLOBALink to enable aircraft flying throughout the region to seamlessly communicate and exchange information with ground crews and airline host systems.
Annapolis, MD | May 11, 2015– Rockwell Collins and nine undisclosed airlines from around the world have launched a trial program for the company’s new ARINC MultiLinkSM flight tracking service. The service, which was announced in March, offers a comprehensive and cost-effective global flight tracking solution for the world’s airlines.
“The geographic diversity of the airlines participating in this program is very compelling,” said Yun Chong, vice president, commercial aviation services for Rockwell Collins’ Information Management Services business. “They fly a considerable number of oceanic and polar routes, which will allow them to use ARINC MultiLink to track aircraft in some of the most remote regions in the world.”
The airlines testing the program are based in Europe, Asia, Middle East, North America and Latin America and operate both regionally and globally.
ARINC MultiLink brings together multiple data sources to reliably report the location of an aircraft anywhere in the world. In addition to utilizing Rockwell Collins’ proprietary high-frequency data link (HFDL) performance data, the service merges multiple other data sources including ADS-C, ADS-B, ASDI radar data, EUROCONTROL position information and ACARS position reports, many of which the airlines already generate, to provide a highly economical solution for airlines.
“At the core of the ARINC MultiLink concept is the desire to take advantage of as many data feeds as possible,” continued Chong. “Having multiple data sources helps us provide a more accurate position and increases the likelihood that at least one data source will always be available. We are currently evaluating other data feeds that contain positional data that could be incorporated into the service.”
In addition, the service is designed to support flexible position reporting frequency, enabling it to meet industry recommendations of providing position reports at least every 15 minutes. Airlines can also receive notifications when an aircraft has unexpectedly stopped reporting positional data or when the aircraft has deviated from its expected path.
Upon completion of the trials, the ARINC MultiLink service is expected to enter into service in the fall.
We open this week’s Hot Topic after a very successful and interesting trip to Hamburg for the 2015 Aircraft Interiors Exhibition. From almost every perspective there was more of everything. So much so, that your IFExpress reporters were so overwhelmed with the 3 halls worth of IFEC/Cabin display areas (approximately 100 exhibits) that we never even got to the other buildings/halls for more aircraft cabin and related show exhibitors, where there were 4 or 5 times more booths. In fact, the IFE halls themselves saw an increase of 33% and there was even a US Pavilion that provided a lower cost display exhibit solution for small businesses – in 2016, this section should grow! It will be our effort in the next month, or so, to cover booths we visited in detail with the hopes that our readers that did not go to Hamburg will get a feel for the show and a bit more information on IFEC related products and services there. We should also point out that since general show floor visitors get in free, it might be wise to use some of your vacation time if you don’t get work-nominated to go yourself!
Carlisle
Perhaps the best lead-in to this next story on Carlisle (you know, the cable maker) and their new aviation product was best spoken by Marketing Guru, Kris Samuelson, and it went something like this: “We built FlightGear Universal Installation to provide an agnostic solution to the installation of satcom antennas on most commercial jet aircraft.” They note: “The universal solution provides an adapter plate to attach antenna to aircraft exteriors for virtually every Ku and Ka Band large format antenna!” You can see the device on this data sheet and it looks like a large, milled aluminum plate with installation fixtures attached. “Carlisle Interconnect Technologies, in a partnership with Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, now offers a complete ARINC 791 solution for Ka- and Ku-band SATCOM installations. The complete package contains everything required for either retrofit or forward fit installations on large jet aircraft. Installation fittings are adjustable to cover the complete range of aircraft frame spacing while providing discrete interface loads to the fuselage. The aerodynamic fairing follows the fuselage curvature without requiring a large installation doubler, sealants, or fasteners through the fuselage. This design creates a simplified, standardized installation, easier maintenance inspections, and overall lower cost of ownership while enabling speed to market. Conformance to the ARINC 791 standard also helps future-proof the installation and makes upgrades to next generation antennas and SATCOM system equipment easier and faster with commonality across entire fleets.”
And yes, Carlisle is quite aware of drag implications. A detailed aerodynamic analysis is being performed currently as part of a final shape refinement to optimize the drag while still encompassing the required volume and keeping the overall installation as compact as possible for minimum weight. Lastly, we should point out that while lower profile antennas have entered the market, they are not yet a panacea. With a demand for increasing bandwidth and higher data rates, Carlisle believes that in the long term, a hybrid approach will actually be adopted by the industry, selecting the right antenna (or antennas) for the operating region of the fleet being modified. Carlisle has seen a tremendous degree of interest during, and immediately following, the Aircraft Interiors Expo probably because they have provided a solution to a seemingly widespread need.
JetPack IFE
One of the “little folks”, JetPack IFE at AIX caught our attention. Having the smallest booth there, we were surprised when we talked to Ed Playdell-Bouverie and James Vaughton, both tekkies, and very sharp, at that. Here is what they do, straight from their website – “JetPack are a leading supplier of innovative portable solutions for Inlight Entertainment systems. Our proprietary software, VisionIFE, is the first iPad IFE platform to meet the rigorous security criteria necessary to secure Hollywood ‘early window’ content. We create branded systems for airlines and, by leveraging the technology of the latest iPads, we can significantly increase the depth and scope of content available in flight. At JetPack, we provide a full, comprehensive service from supplying technology solutions – tablets, charging and synching stations, and the world-beating support needed to support large deployments of iPads in an aviation environment – to providing a bespoke, curated content according to the exacting needs of partner airlines. We are constantly expanding and developing our offering to ensure there is not better entertainment system in the skies.” They told IFExpress that they offer iPads with content approval from “all major Hollywood Studios”, games, electronic books and music as well. You be the judge – check out their website.
On another front, we asked a couple folks in Hamburg what the future might hold in the IFE space, and one of the best responses we got was from -who else – Rich Salter at Lumexis. He noted “I thought the educational day (Passenger Experience Conference) was great this year – the Virtual Reality session and the Etihad presentation re: developing their custom interior/seating were especially interesting. A future IFE prediction, and don’t laugh – Virtual and Augmented Reality will play a part in IFEC sooner than you might think – VR is not just a Sci-Fi far-future concept anymore. Test results show that passengers immersed in a VR space (e.g., touring their destination in advance) may feel better and more relaxed after a flight even though they’ve actually been cramped into an aircraft seat.” IFExpress is waiting for more data on using a VR headset in a moving device, after an airline meal, with only 2 hours of sleep….
Before we forget, the 2015 AEEC upcoming General Session meeting in Prague will be one of the more interesting for those in the cabin interior and electronics arena. Specifically, there will be some 15 new ARINC Standards to be approved by the AEEC Executive Committee, many of which will be affecting all of us. One that we really thought was ancient history is the application of multi-core processors (Introduced in early 2000’s to personal computers) is proposed to be covered by an approval in a change to ARINC Specification 653; “This will enable avionics suppliers, for the very first time, to use multi core processors on avionics computing platforms,” said Paul Prisaznuk, AEEC Exec Secretary. “Today, every avionics computer on an airplane uses a single core processor. ARINC 653 will support dual core, quad core, multi-core type solutions.“ We note that today’s iPad Air uses a tri-core processor – you make the inference! Check out more of the proposed changes here
- Optical Termini Offer Durability and Ruggedness for Commercial Air Connectors
Harrisburg, PA | April 16, 2015– TE Connectivity (TE), a world leader in connectivity, announces its new PRO BEAM EB16 optical termini has been selected as the design of choice for the new ARINC Project Paper 845 Expanded Beam Standard for Air Transport Aircraft. This decision was made by ARINC’s Fiber Optic Subcommittee and Cabin Systems Subcommittee.
“With this new global commercial aviation industry standard, we are honored that our termini design has been chosen by ARINC as the design of record,” said Rodney Smith, Product Manager, Global Aerospace, Defense & Marine, TE. “Our engineers are committed to innovation and excellence, and are always looking for ways to advance today’s technology and performance.”
Designed to fit MIL-DTL-38999 Series III size 16 cavities, the PRO BEAM EB16 optical termini are a drop-in replacement for physical contact termini. The termini’s ball lens physically expands and collimates the optical beam area 30 times of its original size to provide easier optical alignment, low sensitivity to contamination, and consistent performance over thermal changes. The beam is then refocused back down onto the core of the receiving fiber.
“The non-contacting interface of optical connections is designed for no wear, which is especially important in high-mating cycle and high-vibration applications,” said Smith. “The use of expanded beam optical technology also offers low sensitivity to thermal fluctuations and stable performance over the life of the system.”
Because the beam size is substantially expanded when traversing the mechanical interface, the signal will not deteriorate due to airborne contamination particles of the same size that would otherwise seriously affect the performance of the PC connection.
The PRO BEAM EB16 termini is field terminable and fits a standard size 16 cavity. It is intended for a variety of commercial and military aerospace applications including fixed wing and rotary aircraft, unmanned aerials systems, and radar and sensor systems.
The goal of ARINC’s Fiber Optics Subcommittee is to update physical standards, design guidelines, component criteria, and testing and maintenance procedures for fiber optic components and systems for use on air transport airplanes. ARINC’s Cabin Systems Subcommittee was established to develop cost effective and valuable network infrastructure for the airlines to cope with the rapid and evolving electronics/entertainment industry that will exceed passenger expectations.
For more information on TE’s optical termini, read the PRO BEAM EB16 termini white paper
- Integrated biometrics improve passenger flow and convenience while maintaining security
Passenger Terminal EXPO, Paris | March 10, 2015– Airports seeking ways to automate passenger processing while maintaining the highest security levels will soon have a new suite of highly configurable airport identity management solutions at their disposal.
Rockwell Collins is integrating its ARINC vMUSE™ and ARINC Veripax™ technologies with the Atkins Identity Management toolkit to capture a traveler’s identity using biometrics and match it with the passenger’s passport and boarding pass information.
ARINC vMUSE can accommodate a wide range of biometrics (for example, finger print, facial recognition or iris scan) to deliver a plug-and-play solution that can be implemented quickly and easily. The solution enables a phased rollout of biometric processing, with airline or gate-specific rules permitting biometrics to be used only when needed.
The integration will streamline passenger processing through the airport, from passenger identification at check-in to self-boarding gates. The systems are being demonstrated in stand 4045 at this week’s Passenger Terminal Expo 2015.
“Airports are seeking ways to improve operations and passenger flow while maintaining the rigorous security levels required today,” said Christopher Forrest, vice president, Global Airports for Rockwell Collins. “We’re creating a suite of self-service solutions that integrate biometric authentication into each phase of passenger processing, enabling airports to securely automate everything from check-in through boarding the airplane.”
As part of the initial implementation, ARINC vMUSE common-use passenger processing systems (CUPPS) now include standardized plug-ins and configurable work flow capabilities that enable airlines and airports to implement identity management solutions as part of the check-in process, without requiring changes to an airline’s Departure Control Systems (DCS).
“Combining Rockwell Collins’ experience deploying CUPPS technology at airports worldwide with our proven capabilities in developing and implementing biometric applications has allowed us to create a fully integrated identity management solution for airports,” said Nick Whitehead, head of strategic services, identity assurance at Atkins. “Airports can use this service to validate a passenger’s identity, ensuring that the individual given the authority to fly is actually the one who boards the plane.”
Paris | March 10, 2015– Rockwell Collins today unveiled ARINC vMUSE™ mobile, the first entirely mobile common-use passenger processing (CUPPS) compliant solution for the aviation industry. ARINC vMUSE mobile enables airline and ground handling agents to utilize a tablet-based application to check-in passengers from anywhere in an airport when traditional CUPPS systems are not enough. The system is being demonstrated in stand 4045 at this week’s Passenger Terminal Expo 2015.
ARINC vMUSE mobile enhances an airport’s existing common-use infrastructure, reducing queues resulting from irregular operations or spikes in passenger traffic by enabling airlines to launch passenger check-in service in minutes, wherever there is an internet connection.
“Weather, maintenance and other factors that can cause flight delays or cancellations wreak havoc with an airport’s schedule and are a major source of frustration for passengers,” said Christopher Forrest, vice president, Global Airports for Rockwell Collins. “When irregular operations occur, ARINC vMUSE mobile allows agents to go anywhere in the terminal to process passengers quickly and cost effectively.”
ARINC vMUSE mobile allows each airline to access its own check-in application no matter where they are in the airport. Using a tablet PC and peripherals housed in a secure protective casing, ARINC vMUSE mobile provides the same security and reliability of the company’s traditional IATA-compliant CUPPS, but does not require any installation time, software configuration, telecommunications lines or added technical resources.
“ARINC vMUSE mobile fills a need for airports, enabling them to take a full CUPPS where traditional systems are unable to go,” said Forrest. “Beyond the airport, ARINC vMUSE mobile opens up a number of unique passenger processing opportunities that include off-airport check-in, processing for start-up operations and onboard passenger processing.”
- Marks first of its kind ‘take-off-to-touchdown’ information management solution
Farnborough, UK | July 16, 2014– Rockwell Collins today announced it has reached a major milestone in implementing a complete take-off-to-touchdown advanced information management solution as Cathay Pacific begins operational evaluation of the company’s eEnabled Aircraft Solution on three Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
“The solution we’re implementing for Cathay Pacific represents a broader trend in our industry as airlines look to fully harness the capabilities and applications that high-speed air-to-ground connectivity can provide,” said Jeff Standerski, senior vice president, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. “We commend Cathay Pacific for pioneering this effort, as it becomes the first airline in Asia to begin the implementation of an almost fleet-wide eEnabled solution, the most advanced of its kind.”
Working in collaboration with Cathay Pacific, Rockwell Collins is designing and supporting the implementation of a common aircraft network across Cathay Pacific’s fleet of B777, B747-400F, B747-8, and Airbus A330 aircraft as well as Dragonair’s A330 and A320/1 aircraft. The network will serve as a full-time global air-to-ground data communication and information management service, supporting both current and future high-speed connectivity. Rockwell Collins, with Cathay Pacific, has the only eEnabled fully integrated and regulation-compliant aircraft solution flying today.
Rockwell Collins’ ARINC eEnabled Aircraft Solution allows for secure information management of flight operations, data communication services, cabin services, maintenance, diagnostics and vital safety information throughout flight, enhancing operational efficiencies and reducing costs. It improves accuracy of fueling requirements, provides potential for increased payload, and allows for automatic upgrades of installed and portable electronic flight bags.
“Rockwell Collins’ ARINC eEnabled Aircraft Solution enables us to create a highly functional, seamless communications platform, allowing us to improve the speed, accuracy, deployment and presentation of information between the aircraft and ground infrastructure,” said Cathay Pacific’s Mark Hoey, General Manager Operations. “The ability to connect airborne systems to ground-based information technology systems in real time will result in improved operational efficiency and increased maintenance effectiveness, as well as provide a number of exciting service enhancements.”
- New technology significantly improves passenger flow for 2014 World Cup travelers
Annapolis, MD | July 7, 2014– Rockwell Collins is implementing its ARINC VeriPaxTM passenger reconciliation system at São Paulo International Airport (GRU) through a contract with Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Guarulhos S.A. The first phase of the project went live prior to the start of the 2014 World Cup on June 12.
ARINC VeriPax streamlines the entire check-in process by dramatically decreasing the time needed to screen passengers at security checkpoints. Using automated security screening capabilities, ARINC VeriPax reads boarding passes using new 2D barcode scanners, automatically screens passengers against flight information systems in real time, determines clearance and provides alerts to agents when necessary. In the future, it will also screen passengers against airline host systems.
GRU is the first airport in South America to install Bar Coded Boarding Pass (BCBP) gates using ARINC VeriPax as part of its security screening process. The system is in the airport’s new state-of-the-art terminal 3, will soon go live throughout the airport in terminals 1, 2 and 4.
“Hosting the 2014 World Cup has brought soccer fans from around the world to Brazil so we needed a solution that would provide our passengers with a better, faster check-in experience,” said Luiz Eduardo Ritzmann, chief information officer for GRU. “By automating the screening process, we believe that VeriPax has enabled us to improve GRU’s passenger flow by 15-20 percent.”
ARINC Veripax has already been successfully deployed since 2009 in some of the world’s busiest airports including Singapore’s Changi Airport, London’s Gatwick Airport, Vietnam’s Hanoi Airport and Hong Kong International Airport. In addition to automating the check-in process, ARINC VeriPax can also help airports analyze passenger flows at security check points to ensure appropriate staffing as well as validate passenger counts from airlines.
“We’re proud to be playing a critical role in making GRU one of the most modern airports in the world in terms of passenger processing capabilities,” said Michael Picco, staff vice president, airport systems, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. ”This program marks yet another key milestone in our commitment to invest and grow in Brazil. We look forward to a long and productive relationship with GRU and other airports throughout the country.”
Annapolis, MD | June 4, 2014– Rockwell Collins today announced that STARS Airlines Tunisia has selected its ARINC AviNet Mail Enterprise Hub (eHub) as its cloud-based messaging delivery service.
STARS Airlines provides ground support for all Tunisian and Moroccan airports, with services that include ground handling supervision, operations support, permit requests, fuel request, hotel accommodation, ground transportation and catering.
Rockwell Collins’ eHub was selected as the primary messaging platform because it provides a cost-effective solution that enables STARS Airlines to send and receive passenger processing and cargo system messages from airline handling agents.
“AviNet Mail Enterprise Hub represents the next generation messaging hub for the air transport industry,” said Chemam Hichem, general manager for STARS Airlines. “With eHub serving as our messaging platform, we have migrated all of our legacy accounts to Rockwell Collins because of its cost effective solution and superior customer service.”
As a cloud-based service, AviNet eHub requires no expensive internal server installs or software licensing fees, offers free local traffic routing and reduces customer costs for training, infrastructure and messaging transactions.
“eHub has been designed to meet all the IATA standards and customer interface needs, including Type B, XML SMTP, X400, Fax, SMS or even Type X,” said Alexis Hickox, senior director, Aviation Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “With eHub, we’re continuing the drive to reduce operational costs, and at the same time equipping our customers with the ability to embrace future developments in messaging.”
Additional information about eHub can be found at http://www.rockwellcollins.com/arinc.
Dubai | May 9, 2014– At this year’s Airport Show Dubai 2014, Rockwell Collins (Stand 8310) is showcasing its latest ARINC Airport Solutions for airports, airlines and ground handlers.
“The Dubai Airport Show is an important platform for us to engage with new and potential customers– especially as we continue to invest and grow in the region,” said Tony Lynch, Middle East Director, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. “We’re looking forward to many productive meetings at the show, and demonstrating how our innovative airport technologies can help manage airport costs and improve processes.”
At the Rockwell Collins exhibit the ARINC Airport Solutions that will be on display include:
- Efficient and cost effective shared check-in, featuring:
- Legacy and CUPPS application support for maximum operational flexibility
- Cloud-based common use check-in on a tablet
- Multiple concurrent airline application support
- Touchscreen Way-Finding and information kiosk
- Common use biometric enabled passenger processing including — passenger authentication and identity assurance through biometric enrolment and validation
- Airport Operational Suite to underpin airport collaborative decision-making (A-CDM) and deliver improved efficiencies
- Communications networks
- Advanced security and surveillance systems
Information Management Services
Rockwell Collins’ Information Management Services (IMS) business, formed as the direct result of the acquisition of ARINC Incorporated in 2013, enables mission-critical data and voice communications throughout the world. IMS includes voice and data communication services; pre-flight planning and in-flight planning services and communications; and airport communications and information systems designed to ease congestion and improve airport efficiency via airline agent and passenger-facing check-in, baggage, boarding and access control solutions. More information is available at www.rockwellcollins.com/ARINC.
- 5th Generation satellite network completes cockpit to cabin service offering
Aircraft Interiors, Hamburg | April 8, 2014–Inmarsat, (LSE:ISAT.L), the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services and Rockwell Collins, (NYSE: COL), a pioneer in communications, aviation electronics and information management, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to make Rockwell Collins a Value Added Reseller (VAR) of GX Aviation Ka-broadband service.
Under the terms of the agreement, Rockwell Collins, through its recent acquisition of ARINC, will bring the newest generation of Ka-band service to airline customers worldwide. GX Aviation is scheduled to be available for the commercial aviation market segment in the first half of 2015. It will provide Internet speeds of 50Mbps virtually everywhere in the world and is set to change the shape of inflight connectivity.
Inmarsat has had a long-term strategic relationship with Rockwell Collins and ARINC, which is now part of Rockwell Collins’ Information Management Services (IMS) business. Since the launch of Inmarsat’s aviation services over 20 years ago, ARINC has been a leading provider of cockpit voice and data services for airlines over Inmarsat’s networks, while Rockwell Collins has been providing Inmarsat-enabled avionics. Rockwell Collins is already a reseller of GX Aviation airtime in the business aviation market segment, and upon agreement will be able to provide a full solution offering to airlines to support all of their satcom connectivity needs from the cockpit to the cabin.
“Rockwell Collins is committed to providing the best in class connectivity solutions for our customers,” said Jeff Standerski, senior vice president, Information Management Services (IMS) for Rockwell Collins. “Airlines need to know they can provide the same service on every flight, all over the world, and that is what Inmarsat provides. The imminent launch of GX Aviation is very exciting and we are looking forward to working with airlines to bring a broad range of new applications to airlines and passengers.”
Standerski added “Combining GX Aviation with our strong portfolio of existing Rockwell Collins products for the cabin, such as our PAVES inflight entertainment and Airshow moving map system product lines will add tremendous value for our customers and their passengers.”
“We are building an exceptional network of resellers for GX Aviation, and we’re looking forward to continuing our tremendous 20-year history of working with Rockwell Collins and ARINC,” said Miranda Mills, President, Inmarsat Aviation. “The very best companies in the industry are working to ensure GX Aviation is widely available for airlines and therefore their passengers. For the first time, passengers will have access to the same level of high speed broadband throughout entire flights.”
The first of three GX Aviation satellites is already in orbit and undergoing final testing, with the second and third scheduled to be in place before the end of the year. The airborne hardware is in the production phase; testing and certification will happen in early 2015, at which point GX Aviation will be available for airlines.
- ARINC now part of Rockwell Collins
Singapore | February 4, 2014– Rockwell Collins is featuring a number of new products and services at the Singapore Airshow 2014 taking place Feb. 11-16. Attendees are encouraged to visit the company exhibit (Stand Q79 in the USA Pavilion), to learn more about its new MultiScan ThreatTrack™ weather radar, the EVS-3000 enhanced vision system and the HeliSure™ family of products for helicopters.
For military customers in the region, Rockwell Collins will be highlighting two new radios at the Singapore Airshow. These include the next generation Talon RT-8400 international software defined radio, which provides next generation fully exportable secure communications, and the 721S VHF-UHF radio, an Ethernet-based command and control system that employs open system standards to deliver superior interoperability.
In addition, this year marks the first time that the newly formed Information Management Services division of Rockwell Collins, created as a result of the 2013 acquisition of ARINC, will be a part of Rockwell Collins’ presence at the show. At the ARINC exhibit (Stand P95), company representatives will be demonstrating the latest ARINC Direct Flight Planning and International Trip Planning applications on mobile devices; airport self-service check-in technology; and a running video presentation of the company’s aerospace capabilities.
“The Singapore Air Show continues to be of growing importance for our company because of the vast opportunities that exist on both the commercial and military side of our business in the Asia Pacific,” said Colin Mahoney, senior vice president, International & Service Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “With the new product and services we’re featuring, as well as program and customer announcements we’ll be making, we anticipate a very busy and productive week at this year’s event.”
Exhibit details:
- A running video presentation of Rockwell Collins’ new MultiScan ThreatTrack weather radar will be on display, showing the system’s unprecedented atmospheric threat assessment capabilities for air transport aircraft. The new radar goes beyond hail and lightning prediction within a thunderstorm cell and alerts pilots to these significant threats adjacent to the cell, and it is the first airborne weather radar to differentiate the severity of approaching turbulence. ThreatTrack’s Predictive Overflight™ Protection helps warn pilots of these threats associated with growing thunderstorms ahead and below that may be in the aircraft’s flight path.
- An in-depth presentation about Rockwell Collins’ new EVS-3000 will also be featured in the exhibit. EVS-3000 features the latest in enhanced vision technology. Offering an uncooled, lighter-weight solution that can detect all runway lighting, including new LED systems, the EVS-3000 lets pilots see through many of the worst conditions nature has to offer.
- A product demonstration of the HeliSure™ family of products will be feature. HeliSure is the only completely unique portfolio that combines 3D visualization, displays, sensors and databases together to provide unprecedented situational awareness for helicopters.
- A demonstrator featuring Pro Line Fusion® integrated avionics will showcase the system’s unsurpassed and pioneering features for commercial and military aircraft. It helps pilots manage, monitor and master flight automation, with key elements that make flying safer and more enjoyable.
- An interactive iPad® demonstration of the operational and economical advantages of the Rockwell Collins Head-Up Guidance System (HGS™), including enhanced low-visibility operations, schedule reliability, improved energy management and increased safety.
- An interactive look at Rockwell Collins’ award-winning VenueTM cabin management and entertainment system with features that include high definition video, iPod® docking stations and programmable switch panels, as well as the latest version of the company’s Airshow® 4200 3D moving map and in-flight information system.
- A PAVES™ On-demand demonstration with overhead broadcast video and in-seat audio / video will be featured at the exhibit. With Paves On-demand, travelers can enjoy high-definition entertainment while the system’s compact footprint, light weight and maintenance features help minimize cost of ownership.
- The TalonTM next-generation programmable software defined radio is designed to give military customers the best value in features, technology and growth capabilities. This series of receiver-transmitters features a digital radio architecture that allows easy reprogramming with different waveforms and operating modes through the use of digital signal processing technology.
- The latest in Rockwell Collins’ long history of cockpit display enhancements is the new electronic Engine Instrument Display System (EIDS). The EIDS is not only the simple, cost-effective solution to the problem of continually having to repair or replace obsolete analog instruments; it provides your flight crews with a higher degree of reliability, safety, operational efficiency and situational awareness.
- Demonstrations of the Rockwell Collins Virtual Avionics Procedures Trainer (VAPT) with CH-47/C-130/KC-135 configuration. The VAPT is based on Rockwell Collins’ advanced CORETM simulation architecture and features a modular, expandable and configurable combination of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology, PC-based hardware and Rockwell Collins re-hosted avionics software.
- Rockwell Collins representatives will also be on hand to provide information on the company’s service and support offerings. Rockwell Collins’ global network of more than 80 locations provides life cycle service and support for commercial, business, corporate and military operations. Logistics capabilities include asset management, engineering services, on-board services, repair and overhaul, service parts, technical information, and training and simulation systems and services. These solutions are tailored to meet customer operational requirements and reduce total cost of ownership.
- Intertrade, a division of Rockwell Collins’ Service Solutions business, offers competitively priced new and recertified aircraft and engine components for sale, exchange or lease. The company’s extensive inventory covers multiple military and commercial equipment manufacturers, aircraft platforms and Air Transport Association chapters.
In-flight entertainment and related technologies, such as onboard Internet access, are critically important to the passengers I speak with every day. An authoritative resource about the latest developments in the in-flight entertainment industry will lead to better products and happier customers.”
