European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to conduct flight trials on commercial aircraft using satellite-based communication technology to mitigate the environmental impacts of flying. The test flights with satellite technology are proposed to be conducted after the normal resumption of flights.

Satellite Communication company Inmarsat will be testing real-time trials of the technology in coordination with ESA.

Almost 20 commercial aircraft will be featured with the satellite-enabled communication technology to conduct the flight trials. Air Traffic Controllers can manage their task efficiently with the use of such technology as it features high bandwidth, the reliable data link between ATC/aircraft and is cost-effective.

Advantages of satellite-enabled communication technology

With the use of satellite technology, the flight plans, weather can be updated frequently inflight which minimizes fuel requirement and then reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Besides, the technology will also ease the pressure on ground-based communication equipment.

Officials from the Satellite communication company said that the newer technology would enhance the flight operation across Europe. Implementation of this technology is expected to make flights more efficient, reliable, and environment friendly.

Besides, the technology will bring economic benefit to the airlines while reducing CO2 emissions and advancing air traffic management. ESA is delighted to support such innovations that will promote a greener environment, safer air travel, good flight experience, and economy. The test flight will initiate shortly after the normal flight operation begins.

The Covid-19 virus outbreak originated from Wuhan, China on November 2019 has not come into complete control. The violent outbreak happened in countries like Italy, America, and Brazil while other countries also have a significant number of cases. Air travel and tourism industry are highly affected by the pandemic.

Some countries have started to slowly resume flight operation with stricter regulations at the airport. However, the normal flight operation is yet to begin as the international aviation authorities like ICAO, IATA are busy making guidelines and regulations to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 disease during air travel.


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