TriaGnoSys today announced that it has been selected by Thales for its new inflight broadband Internet connectivity solution, specifically designed for the high-growth business and regional jet markets. TriaGnoSys, the aviation satellite communications specialist, will provide the satellite communications management and billing processes to make inflight Internet connectivity an economically viable option for smaller aircraft.

The Thales/TriaGnoSys inflight connectivity solution is the first cabin Internet connectivity solution purpose-designed for the space constraints associated with smaller aircraft of up to 110 seats. The solution is not only compact and lightweight but also benefits from the cost-efficiencies and high bandwidth capabilities of Inmarsat's SwiftBroadband technology. In addition, the system uses a modem that can provide multiple channels, further improving both performance and cost-effectiveness.

The new inflight connectivity solution will provide business and regional aircraft passengers with the ability to use their laptops to access the Internet at broadband speeds via a WiFi connection, as well as access other multimedia services including printers and fax machines running on the TopSeries platform.

Dr Axel Jahn, Managing Director of TriaGnoSys, said, "This new Internet service significantly widens the inflight connectivity options for business and regional jet airframe manufacturers, as well as owners and operators. The competitive costs of buying and installing the equipment, which can be either line- or retro-fitted, and running the service, make it a must-have' option for business travellers and an important ancillary revenue opportunity for regional airlines."

Jahn continued, "The satellite communications software we have developed uses unique compression technology to minimise bandwidth requirements and at the same time to maximise outward and inward bound traffic via Inmarsat's SwiftBroadband satellite service."

The solution incorporates PlaneBill billing technology, also supplied by TriaGnoSys, which offers a range of payment options, including pay as you go or fixed-rate billing options payable by credit card as well as pre-paid authenticated access either for individuals or for those working within a corporate network.