Aircraft Mobile Satellite Communications: Enhancing Air Traffic Management and Passenger Connectivity

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In today’s fast-paced aviation industry, reliable and efficient communication systems are crucial for ensuring safety, optimizing air traffic management, and enhancing the passenger experience. Aircraft mobile satellite communications play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives. This article delves into the fundamentals, applications, and benefits of satellite communications in aviation, particularly focusing on air traffic management (ATM) and passenger communication.

The aviation industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in air travel over the past few decades, reaching two billion passengers annually in 2018 and projected to surpass eight billion by 2037. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant setback, leading to a dramatic reduction in passenger traffic and impacting aircraft demand. As the industry recovers, enhancing air traffic management (ATM) and passenger communication through mobile satellite communications has become crucial for future growth and efficiency.

Aviation Operational Needs

The future of aviation demands significant enhancements in the communications infrastructure to support increasing air travel and cargo. This infrastructure must cater to two primary functions: aviation operational needs (including airline operations, ATM, flight information services, and crew communications) and passenger services (internet connectivity, voice/data, travel services, etc.). The goal is to enable radical new ATM methods that require extensive information flow between aircraft, air traffic service providers, and airline operations centers.

Categories of Civil Aviation Communication

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), civil aviation communication is divided into four categories based on safety levels:

• ATSC (Air Traffic Services Communication): Critical communication between pilots and ATC to ensure flight safety, speed, and efficiency.
• AOC (Aeronautical Operation Control): Critical communication for exercising authority over flight operations for safety, regularity, and efficiency, used by airlines for maintenance messages, fuel levels, departure, and arrival times.
• AAC (Aeronautical Administrative Control): Non-critical communication for exchanging administrative messages unrelated to flight security or efficiency, such as passenger information and special cleaning requests.
• APC (Aeronautical Passenger Communication): Non-critical communication, including VoIP, email, and web browsing.

Critical communications adhere to stringent international rules defined by ICAO, ensuring specific quality of service requirements. Non-critical communications may have application-specific requirements but are not as heavily regulated.

Passenger Services Communication

Passenger services communication is expected to generate significant revenue for airlines and service providers. To justify the costly avionics installation and operating expenses, a “critical mass” of users is needed, which necessitates broadband services. As service quality improves and costs decrease, user demand for onboard connectivity will increase, driven by the public’s growing expectation of ubiquitous wireless access during flights. A Honeywell survey revealed that nearly 75% of airline passengers are willing to switch airlines for faster and more reliable in-flight internet, with over 20% having already done so.

Civil Aviation Communication Requirements

The growing demands on global air traffic systems require significant advancements in aviation communication infrastructure. Traditional air traffic management (ATM) methods are becoming increasingly strained, prompting the need for innovative solutions to manage congestion effectively. Future ATM systems will rely on highly collaborative environments, where real-time data sharing among airlines, air traffic controllers, and other stakeholders is essential. The concept of Distributed Air/Ground Traffic Management (DAGTM) is set to play a crucial role, decentralizing control and enhancing communication between aircraft and ground facilities.

To support this shift, aviation communication systems must embrace high-capacity networks capable of handling increased data traffic with minimal latency. Enhanced air-to-air and air-to-ground communication will be key to improving situational awareness and ensuring efficient use of airspace. Furthermore, integrating data from multiple sources, such as radar and satellite-based systems, will provide a comprehensive view of the airspace, aiding in more accurate decision-making.

As the industry moves towards more digital communication systems, cybersecurity measures will become increasingly important to protect the integrity of transmitted data. Additionally, building communication systems with redundancy and resilience will ensure continuous operation, even in the face of disruptions. Finally, global standardization of aviation communication systems is essential to ensure interoperability across different regions and platforms, facilitating smoother international operations and enhancing overall efficiency and safety in civil aviation.

Satellite Communications for Aviation

The exponential growth in air travel may lead to a shortage of radio resources, potentially collapsing the ATM system. Current aeronautical communications primarily use the VHF band (118-137 MHz), which lacks the capacity and coverage required for future needs. Hybrid information infrastructure architectures, incorporating satellite communications links, are proposed to address this challenge.

The exponential growth in air traffic poses a significant risk of radio resource shortages, potentially leading to the collapse of the Air Traffic Management (ATM) system and jeopardizing the safety of billions of future passengers. Currently, aeronautical communications between the air and ground primarily rely on the VHF band (118-137 MHz), which lacks the necessary capacity and coverage to meet future demands. To address this issue, hybrid information infrastructure architectures that incorporate satellite communications links are being proposed.

The aviation industry increasingly recognizes that satellite communications are essential for providing the necessary capacity and coverage for future aviation communications infrastructure. A communications satellite, is an artificial satellite that relays and amplifies radio telecommunications signals via a transponder, creates a communication channel between a source transmitter and a receiver at different locations on Earth. Satellite communications networks consist of user terminals, satellites, and a ground network that provides control and interface functions.

Satellite communications offer numerous advantages, including wide-area broadcast capabilities, large geographic coverage (including oceanic and remote regions), and lower terrain blockage. Satellite navigation methods, such as augmented GPS, are integral to future air navigation and ATM.

Satellites provide economical wide-area broadcast capabilities, making them ideal for covering large geographic areas. They can cover vast regions, including oceanic and remote areas, ensuring connectivity where terrestrial systems are impractical. Additionally, satellites offer coverage at all altitudes, which is crucial for aviation, and experience less blockage from terrain compared to ground-based systems. Operating at higher frequencies, satellites also provide larger available bandwidth, critical for handling increasing data demands.

Satellite navigation methods, utilizing augmented GPS and other global positioning systems, are recognized as integral to future air navigation and air traffic management. These systems provide precise location data, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of navigation and traffic control.

To enhance satellite communications for aviation, several recommendations can be made. Implementing advanced modulation and coding techniques can improve spectral efficiency and data throughput. Developing multi-band antennas capable of operating across different frequency bands (e.g., VHF, L-band, Ku-band, Ka-band) can enhance flexibility and reliability. Employing dynamic spectrum management techniques can optimize the use of available frequency bands, reducing congestion and improving communication quality. Additionally, developing robust interference mitigation technologies can protect satellite communication links from interference, ensuring consistent and reliable connectivity.

Upgrading ground infrastructure with more sophisticated control and interface functions can improve the overall efficiency and reliability of satellite communications networks. Creating seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial communication networks can provide redundancy and enhance overall system resilience. Continuous research and development in areas such as high-capacity satellites, advanced signal processing, and antenna technologies can drive further improvements in satellite communications for aviation.

By leveraging these advancements and addressing the current limitations, satellite communications can play a pivotal role in ensuring the future safety, capacity, and efficiency of global aviation communications infrastructure.

Understanding Aircraft Mobile Satellite Communications

Aircraft mobile satellite communications involve the use of satellites to provide communication links between aircraft and ground stations or other aircraft. These systems enable seamless voice, data, and multimedia communication, regardless of the aircraft’s location, whether over oceans, remote areas, or densely populated regions.

Key Components of Aircraft Mobile Satellite Communication Systems

1. Satellite Constellations:
   • Types: Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) satellites, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites.
   • Function: GEO satellites provide broad coverage and are ideal for fixed, high-bandwidth communication. LEO satellites offer low latency and are suitable for real-time communication. MEO satellites balance coverage and latency, offering a middle ground between GEO and LEO.
2. Antenna Systems:
   • Function: Transmit and receive signals to and from satellites.
   • Types: Phased-array antennas, mechanically steered parabolic antennas, and electronically steerable antennas.
3. Satellite Modems:
   • Function: Modulate and demodulate signals for transmission over the satellite link.
   • Capabilities: Support various modulation schemes and error correction techniques to optimize data throughput and signal integrity.
4. Communication Protocols:
   • Standards: Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN), VHF Data Link Mode 2 (VDL Mode 2), and Satellite Data Unit (SDU) protocols.
   • Function: Ensure seamless and standardized communication across different systems and platforms.

Applications in Air Traffic Management

1. Enhanced Safety and Reliability:
   • Surveillance: Satellite communication systems provide real-time tracking of aircraft, enhancing situational awareness for air traffic controllers.
   • Communication: Reliable voice and data links enable constant communication between pilots and air traffic controllers, crucial for managing traffic in congested airspace and during emergencies.
2. Efficient Traffic Management:
   • Route Optimization: Real-time data exchange allows for dynamic rerouting based on weather conditions, air traffic, and other factors, optimizing flight paths and reducing fuel consumption.
   • Airspace Utilization: Improved communication enables more efficient use of airspace, reducing delays and increasing capacity.
3. Automation and Digital Communication:
   • Data Link Services: Systems like Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) allow for digital exchange of messages, reducing the workload on voice channels and minimizing the risk of miscommunication.
   • Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B): Enables aircraft to broadcast their position and receive information from other aircraft, enhancing collision avoidance and situational awareness.

Space-Based ADS-B Receivers

Next-generation ATM systems increasingly rely on Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B). ADS-B provides aircraft location, trajectory, speed, and intent data to ground controllers and nearby aircraft, enhancing situational awareness. While ground-based ADS-B sensors are common, they have limitations in under-the-horizon transmission, leaving large areas unsupervised.

To address this, space-based ADS-B receivers using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations are proposed. These receivers offer low latency and secure global ADS-B coverage, improving airspace efficiency and aircraft security. Companies like SPIRE and Aireon provide global air traffic surveillance systems using space-based ADS-B networks and cloud computing.

Hybrid Communication Architecture

Future aviation communication will benefit from hybrid architectures that combine ground-based and space-based links. Higher frequency bands, such as Ku-band and Ka-band, offer more available spectrum and allow smaller antennas. This hybrid approach ensures efficient data transfer, reducing the need for multiple antennas and receivers on aircraft.

Enhancing Passenger Communication and Experience

1. In-Flight Connectivity:
   • Internet Access: Satellite communication systems enable high-speed internet access, allowing passengers to browse the web, stream media, and stay connected with the ground.
   • Mobile Services: Passengers can use their mobile phones for voice calls, texting, and data services, similar to being on the ground.
2. Entertainment and Information Services:
   • Live TV and Streaming: Passengers can enjoy live television broadcasts, on-demand movies, and other streaming services.
   • Real-Time Information: Access to real-time information such as flight status, weather updates, and destination details enhances the travel experience.
3. Operational Efficiency:
   • Crew Communication: Enhanced communication tools for cabin crew improve coordination and service delivery.
   • Passenger Services: Real-time data exchange allows airlines to offer personalized services, such as meal preferences and connecting flight information.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Signal Interference and Latency:
   • Challenge: Signal interference from other communication systems and the inherent latency of satellite links can impact communication quality.
   • Solution: Advanced modulation and error correction techniques, along with the use of LEO satellites, can mitigate interference and reduce latency.
2. Coverage and Capacity:
   • Challenge: Ensuring consistent coverage and capacity, especially in remote and oceanic regions, is critical.
   • Solution: The deployment of global satellite constellations, such as Iridium and Inmarsat, ensures comprehensive coverage and adequate capacity.
3. Integration and Compatibility:
   • Challenge: Integrating satellite communication systems with existing avionics and ground infrastructure can be complex.
   • Solution: Standardized protocols and modular designs facilitate seamless integration and future upgrades.

Future Trends and Innovations

1. Next-Generation Satellite Networks:
   • The deployment of high-throughput satellites (HTS) and mega-constellations like Starlink and OneWeb will significantly enhance bandwidth and coverage, supporting higher data rates and lower latency.
2. Advanced Antenna Technologies:
   • Innovations in electronically steerable antennas and phased-array systems will provide more reliable and efficient communication links, even in challenging environments.
3. AI and Machine Learning:
   • The integration of AI and machine learning algorithms will optimize network management, predictive maintenance, and fault detection, further improving the performance and reliability of satellite communication systems.

Market

The Global Airborne SATCOM Market, estimating a rise from USD 5.4 billion in 2022 to USD 7.3 billion by 2027, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during the forecast period.

The global airborne satellite communications (SATCOM) market is critical for delivering effective broadband communication services to aircraft operating at high speeds. Used extensively by commercial, government, and defense organizations, airborne SATCOM systems are highly flexible, meeting the operational and maintenance requirements of various aircraft systems, including fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. These systems fulfill mission and business-critical demands for audio, video, and high-speed data services on aerial platforms.

The global market for airborne SATCOM, estimated at $5.9 billion in 2020, is projected to reach $8.2 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% over the analysis period from 2020 to 2027. The commercial aircraft segment is expected to record a 5.5% CAGR, reaching $1.9 billion by the end of the analysis period. The narrow-body aircraft segment is readjusted to a revised 5.3% CAGR for the next seven-year period after an early analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis.

The rise in long-haul flights and traveler traffic and the increase in the number of high-throughput satellites are the major factors propelling market growth. However, the market faces challenges such as ultra-compact SATCOM terminals for tactical UAVs and the need to improve passenger experience. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused short-term operational issues for airborne SATCOM providers due to government-imposed lockdowns, leading to delays in projects and financial strain on organizations. These delays are affecting the supply and procurement of SATCOM systems by military and civil agencies, and the halt of ongoing installation or upgrades due to a lack of workforce is impacting SATCOM prices and demand. The aviation industry is experiencing a financial crisis due to travel bans and grounding of airlines owing to government initiatives to curb the pandemic’s spread.

The global airborne Ka-band SATCOM market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing global aircraft fleet. Operating at a frequency range of 26.5 GHz to 40 GHz, Ka-band SATCOM offers a higher data transfer rate and lower cost of bandwidth, making it the preferred choice for new market entrants. The demand for new aircraft can be attributed to the deployment of advanced airborne SATCOM systems across commercial and military applications. The growing fleet of commercial and combat aircraft and increasing long-haul flights and passenger traffic are driving the demand for customized SATCOM on-the-move solutions. For example, Gogo Inflight Internet, an in-flight internet service provider, unveiled a multi-spectrum antenna solution in 2020 that can cost-effectively convert Ku-band antennas into Ka-band antennas, offering flexibility to integrate the latest satellite technology.

The global airborne SATCOM market is segmented based on platform, component, and application. The platform segment includes commercial aircraft, military aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs. The component segment comprises SATCOM terminals, transceivers, airborne radios, modems and routers, SATCOM radomes, and others. The application segment is divided into government and defense and commercial.

In the wide-body aircraft segment, the U.S., Canada, Japan, China, and Europe are expected to drive the estimated 4.8% CAGR, with a combined market size of $661.4 million in 2020 projected to reach $920 million by the end of the analysis period. The Asia-Pacific market is forecast to reach $1.1 billion by 2027, driven by countries like Australia, India, and South Korea, while Latin America is expected to expand at a 5.6% CAGR.

The new installation segment is anticipated to see significant demand due to the use of advanced airborne SATCOM systems across commercial and military applications and the growing demand for new commercial aircraft orders from Europe and Asia-Pacific. Aircraft manufacturers and airlines worldwide are focusing on integrating newer generation airborne platforms to improve situational responsiveness and passenger experience.

In the U.S., the airborne SATCOM market was estimated at $1.6 billion in 2020. China, the world’s second-largest economy, is forecast to reach $1.7 billion by 2027, trailing a CAGR of 8% over the analysis period. Other noteworthy geographic markets include Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 2.7% and 3.9%, respectively, over the 2020-2027 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 3.5% CAGR.

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience lucrative growth during the forecast period due to increased passenger traffic, leading to improved demand for new aircraft. The aviation industry in Asia-Pacific is growing significantly, driven by rising passenger traffic.

Key players in the airborne SATCOM market include Aselsan A.S., Astronics Corporation, Cobham PLC, Collins Aerospace, General Dynamics Corporation, Gilat Satellite Networks, Harris Corporation, Honeywell International Inc., Hughes Network System, Israel Aerospace Industries, Norsat International Inc., Orbit Communication System Ltd., Raytheon Company, Thales Group, and Viasat, Inc. Notable industry developments include Honeywell’s launch of a new SATCOM system for China’s airlines in 2019 and Northrop Grumman Corporation’s 2017 contract with the Australian Defense Force to provide advanced satellite systems to enhance communication coverage, capacity, and connectivity for Australian defense troops.

Enhancing Aviation Communications with INMARSAT’s Advanced Aeronautical Services

INMARSAT plays a pivotal role in providing aeronautical services through a range of AERO terminal types, each tailored to meet specific aviation communication needs. These services ensure seamless communication for various aeronautical applications, including passenger communication, air traffic management, and operational data transmission.

AERO-C: This is the aeronautical equivalent of the INMARSAT-C station, offering a low data rate of 600 bit/s for store-and-forward messaging and data reporting. AERO-C is essential for weather and flight plan updates, maintenance and fuel requests, as well as business and personal communications. Its ability to provide consistent and reliable low-data-rate communication makes it a vital tool for aircraft operations.

AERO-H: Supporting multiple simultaneous voice telephony services, Group 3 facsimile at 4.8 kbit/s, and real-time two-way data communications up to 10.5 kbit/s, AERO-H is designed for comprehensive passenger, airline operation, and administrative data applications. It utilizes a steerable, high-gain antenna and suitable avionics to ensure global coverage. The enhanced version, AERO-H+, leverages INMARSAT-3 spot beams to offer improved voice quality at 4.8 kbit/s, more robust performance, and reduced operational costs.

AERO-I: This terminal is designed for short- and medium-haul aircraft, certified by the Civil Aviation Authority for air-traffic management and safety purposes. It offers cockpit and passenger phone and facsimile communications, packet data ranging from 600 bit/s to 4.8 kbit/s, and online access to ground-based information sources and services. AERO-I is crucial for maintaining continuous communication during shorter flights.

AERO-L: Providing a low-gain aeronautical satellite communications service, AERO-L enables real-time, two-way air-to-ground data exchange at 600 bit/s. It complies with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements for safety and air traffic, ensuring it meets stringent regulatory standards for secure and reliable communication.

AERO mini-M: Designed for small corporate aircraft and general aviation users, AERO mini-M supports voice, facsimile, and 9.6 kbit/s data services. With an externally mounted antenna and a compact terminal weighing about 4.5 kg, it is ideal for smaller aircraft requiring robust communication capabilities without adding significant weight.

SWIFT64: This service offers both circuit-mode and packet-mode high-speed data communication, supporting the full range of 64 kbit/s ISDN-compatible communications and TCP/IP Internet connectivity. SWIFT64 caters to aircraft passengers, corporate users, and the flight deck, utilizing technology developed by INMARSAT for land-based services. It is designed to be compatible with existing INMARSAT AERO-H/H+ installations, providing an easy upgrade path for enhanced data communication capabilities.

INMARSAT’s suite of AERO terminals ensures that aviation communication remains efficient, reliable, and adaptable to various operational needs. From low-data-rate messaging to high-speed Internet connectivity, these services enhance the overall flight experience and operational efficiency, making them indispensable for modern aviation

Conclusion

As the aviation industry continues to  grow, enhancing air traffic management and passenger communication through mobile satellite communications is vital. These advancements will improve operational efficiency, reduce congestion, and provide passengers with reliable in-flight connectivity, ensuring a safer and more connected future for air travel. As technology continues to evolve, the future of aircraft mobile satellite communications promises even greater advancements, ensuring safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable air travel for everyone.

 

 

 

 

References and Resources also include:

https://www.intelsat.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/intelsatgeneral-ku-band-for-aero-whitepaper-1.pdf