Air-to-Ground Communications

On-board WiFi

The aviation industry is undergoing a significant transformation in its communications infrastructure. Commercial airlines are enhancing in-flight WiFi connectivity for passengers, while airport ground communications networks are implementing state-of-the-art communications standards. CelPlan is at the forefront of these advancements, contributing expertise across multiple domains.

Providing in-flight WiFi access presents a complex challenge: ensuring efficient transmission and reception of passenger WiFi signals between aircraft and ground stations for seamless internet connectivity. CelPlan has developed advanced tools and methodologies for optimal air-to-ground (ATG) network design. Recognizing the extensive coverage requirements of ATG networks, CelPlan has invested in software optimization, enabling rapid calculations for large-scale designs, including nationwide coverage.

Given the current spectrum scarcity, ATG networks necessitate meticulous interference analysis to maximize spectrum utilization without compromising system performance.

AeroMACS

While in-flight communication is managed via Control Towers, ground-based solutions are required for flight crew and ground personnel communications when aircraft are on the tarmac.

The Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communication System (AeroMACS) is an innovative wireless broadband technology addressing the growing demand for data communications and information sharing on airport surfaces, supporting both fixed and mobile applications. Based on the established WiMAX standard (IEEE 802.16e), AeroMACS operates within the protected and licensed aviation spectrum band of 5091 MHz to 5150 MHz, globally allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) at the 2007 World Radiocommunication Conference.

AeroMACS facilitates enhanced ground-to-aircraft communications, supporting both existing and emerging high-bandwidth applications. Its benefits extend beyond improved ground communication throughput. AeroMACS is a pivotal technology for the aviation industry, enhancing airport surface communications by augmenting Air Traffic Control (ATC) and Airline Operations Communications (AOC) transmission capabilities, thereby mitigating traffic congestion and delays, and bolstering flight safety and regularity.

CelPlan offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services to support Airport Surface Communications Networks deployments:

AeroMACS Network Design and Planning
AeroMACS Resource Optimization Software
Tarmac Asset Tracking Solutions
Airport Modeling
RF Model Calibration for Airport Frequencies
Backhaul Design
Communications Availability Analysis
Specialized Consulting

CelPlan’s services and products are tailored to address the complex and evolving requirements of modern airport communications infrastructure, ensuring efficient, reliable, and secure operations across all facets of aviation communications.