Reliable communication becomes more challenging when aircraft operate beyond traditional cellular and radio coverage. IP connectivity is helping change how crews stay connected by bringing familiar communication tools onboard the aircraft.

Bringing Familiar Communications Onboard

With an IP connection onboard, crews can communicate using many of the same tools and devices they already use on the ground. Depending on the available connection, that can include voice, messaging, and applications such as WhatsApp and iMessage.

For mission-critical operations, this can help connect pilots and crew with operations teams, first responders, hospitals, and others on the ground.

In search and rescue, for example, medical personnel onboard can communicate with a hospital while a patient is still in transit, giving teams on the ground information before the aircraft arrives.

Staying Connected Beyond Cellular Coverage

When an aircraft moves outside terrestrial coverage, satellite connectivity can help maintain that connection.

Bristow Group’s search and rescue operations provide a real-world example. In the video below, led by Iridium in collaboration with Bristow Group, Guardian Mobility, Flightcell, and Vipe 21, Bristow and Guardian Mobility discuss how connectivity can transition from cellular to satellite and what that means for crews operating in remote environments.

Connecting Air and Ground

Whether communicating with a nearby ambulance or an operations team thousands of miles away, IP connectivity can help extend communications beyond the limits of terrestrial networks.

Guardian Mobility works with aviation operators and technology partners to provide reliable satellite and cellular connectivity for aircraft operating in remote and demanding environments.