ARINC Introduces A Portable Wireless Connection For Airlines' On-Board Applications

Annapolis, MD - ARINC Incorporated recently introduced a wireless data communications module designed to bring portable connectivity to airline passenger cabin operations. The ARINC Mobile Communications Gateway (MCG) is specifically designed to support airlines' on-board sales and credit card transactions, but it can also be used for other applications.

The ARINC MCG provides wireless connectivity and a recharging power source for in-flight electronic devices, allowing airline crews to download sales data wirelessly after a flight. It is the first on-board solution to offer this capability.

ARINC plans soon to announce flight trials of the MCG system with cooperating airlines that use the popular AbancoTM In-Flight payment solution. ARINC and Abanco signed a marketing and reseller agreement last month.

"The ARINC Mobile Communications Gateway is a revolution in connectivity for airlines," states Rolf Stefani, Senior Director of the ARINC Technology Innovation Center. "It brings an affordable and portable solution to the airplane that can be used for many different purposes."

By adopting the MCG system for wireless downloading, airlines can eliminate the need for crews to remove point-of-sale devices from the aircraft after each flight. The MCG supports wireless data downloading by several devices simultaneously in a single session. Airline crews can leave point-of-sale devices on board the plane, recharge them with the MCG power source, and receive wireless inventory uploads over the MCG as well.

"By introducing the MCG our goal was to streamline the on-board sales and data reporting process," states Andrew Kemmetmueller, ARINC Service Director. "The MCG promises to reduce labor cost and inventory loss significantly. We also find it can reduce costs and provide new functionality in other airline operations as well."

Specifically designed for commercial airline operations, the MCG unit may be left permanently on board a commercial aircraft. It does not rely on airport infrastructure, and airlines can adopt the MCG for use even at airports without Wi-Fi service. Several airlines have suggested new ways to apply MCG technology, and ARINC expects to announce other possible applications of the device in airline operations in the near future.

SOURCE: ARINC Incorporated