This will allow passengers to use their mobile phones, smart phones and BlackBerry devices onboard Emirates A380 aircraft to make voice calls, send SMS text messages or utilise data services wirelessly to their iPod, iPhone, iPad and laptops equipped with GPRS modems.
The first OnAir-equipped Emirates Airbus 380 will come into service in June 2012.
Emirates will commence installation of the OnAir connectivity features on its A380 aircraft at the beginning of 2011, allowing passengers to access the internet via WiFI on personal portable devices such as laptops, smartphones and mobile telephones. Mobile OnAir along with Inmarsat uses the industry's most advanced and extensive infrastructure for mobile communications, providing Emirates passengers global connectivity.
"Emirates inflight entertainment system is a consistent global award winner and we are constantly looking to enhance the services we provide to our passengers," stated Tim Clark, president of the Emirates Airline. "Our decision to install a full set of in-flight connectivity services is part of our on-going effort to provide customers with the real-time access to information that they demand."
"Emirates have established themselves as pioneers of in-flight connectivity. We are very proud that after rigorous evaluation, they have chosen OnAir technology for their flagship aircraft fleet,"said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir. "In choosing SwiftBroadband technology, Emirates benefit from a powerful platform combining cockpit and cabin communications, and one that offers further evolution into the future, should market demand require."
Emirates passengers will be able to stay connected in-flight using their own mobile phones or smartphones to make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages and emails, and access the internet. Using the internet OnAir service, passengers will be able to access the internet just as they do on the ground by connecting their laptops via wireless connection.
OnAir has operated more than 120,000 fully connected flights to date to over 300 cities operating to 75 countries across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa and has signed agreements with more than 25 customers worldwide.
OnAir also serves corporate jets, private VIP and Governmental customers.