Connectivity to be introduced on domestic fleet by Qantas

Airline Industry Information, March 20, 2008

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

New technology is to be introduced by Australian based carrier Qantas to enable customers to send and receive e-mail and SMS via mobile phone or personal electronic device.

The technology is to be rolled out on the carrier's domestic fleet, initially on a number of B767-300 and A330-200 aircraft, from late 2008.

The carrier said that it has partnered with AeroMobile, a company which has developed technology to enable mobile phones and portable devices to be used inflight without interference to aircraft systems or the ground communication network.

The airline is also working in conjunction with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to make sure that the new system operates in accordance with Australian regulatory and legal requirements.

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