Wi-Fi and satellite opens door to opportunity in Australian-first

nbn today welcomed Qantas’ launch of in-air Wi-Fi services as a step forward in research and development aimed to benefit all Australians.

nbn Chief Customer Officer, John Simon, said the Qantas trial will open the door for the technology to be used in many other ways, including emergency services, education and business opportunities.

At the same time, nbn further reinforced its priority will remain on providing services to residents and businesses across regional and remote Australia, with the trial designed so that air services won’t impact Sky Muster services.

“Our regional and remote customers remain our top priority,” Mr Simon said.

“This Qantas trial will help ensure the satellite technology and traffic management systems work as designed to ensure ground traffic is prioritised over air traffic.”

“The trial gives nbn the opportunity to more quickly develop applications that would otherwise have not been possible for a number of years, thanks to our technology partner ViaSat for developing the initial functionality, and to Qantas for trialling the product.”

“It is expected to help fast track technology that could support similar opportunities for emergency services both in the air, and through mobile services on the ground.”

“It also assists the development of other products that could help provide farmers and organisations with more mobility and flexibility around where they access nbn’s satellite network, such as trailer solutions for trucks and tractors.”

nbn’s high tech Sky Muster™ satellites are the only satellites servicing Australia with the capacity to offer these enhanced aeronautical services and pave the way for other innovations.

nbn’s specialist technology team are also developing business, health and education products for the nbn Sky Muster™ service.  For more information, go to www.nbnco.com.au

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