The European Aviation Network (EAN), the first ground-to-air network for in-flight broadband services, has conducted its first test flights in the UK. The EAN is operated by satellite operator Inmarsat and its mobile network partner Deutsche Telekom, along with equipment suppliers Nokia and Thales. Commercial services over the network are expected to start in mid-2017, with BA recently announced as the first customer.
The test flights confirmed that the satellite system, with onboard equipment provided by Thales, can connect to the LTE ground network provided by Deutsche Telekom and Nokia. The systems performed multiple successful handovers between sectors and cell towers, and maintained a stable connection. The transfer of data to and from the aircraft was also tested, based on a video conference with both parties connected over the network. The outcomes exceeded expectations, according to a statement from the partners.
As a precursor to the test flight series, Deutsche Telekom and Nokia achieved the first EAN live over-the-air connection in Nokia’s Stuttgart laboratory. To achieve EAN’s live connection to the LTE ground network, Deutsche Telekom and Nokia have adapted Nokia's LTE base stations and Remote Radio Heads to the frequency used for EAN, provided by Inmarsat, and built a specific base station antenna to cover the sky. The changes mean the LTE network can work at speeds of up to 1,200 kph, at cruising altitudes requiring cells of up to 150 km. Nokia will manage the operations for the network from its global delivery centre in Romania.
