Implementation of OSI compliant aircraft communication systems

The introduction of aeronautical mobile satellite services (AMSS) has made reliable, high quality communication facilities available virtually anywhere aircraft fly. Initial applications were directed towards providing passenger telephony services. More recently, data communication via satellite has started to be used for air traffic services, aircraft operational control and passenger services. Examples include automatic dependent surveillance (ADS), aircraft communication and reporting system (ACARS) and controller pilot data link communication (CPDLC). This has resulted in a need for simultaneous data communication between the aircraft and a number of ground networks. The paper examines the developments and trials which have been carried out as part of the implementation of facilities to meet this requirement.