Airbus and Delta partner in mobile-connectivity scheme

Airbus and Delta are spearheading a new initiative intended to simplify introduction of, and access to, high-speed data networks for passengers. The initiative, known as the Seamless Air Alliance, intends to enable mobile operators to broaden their reach into airline cabins. These operators will be able to provide customers with services both on the ground and in the air, through the use of satellite technology, improving user experience. But the alliance also aims to "eliminate the immense costs and hurdles" involved in acquiring and installing data-access infrastructure. It will establish open specifications for interoperability and streamline system integration and certification as part of this cost-reduction effort. Airbus and Delta are two of the initial five members of the alliance. The others comprise satellite production and connectivity specialist OneWeb, plus respective US and Indian telecoms companies Sprint and Bharti Airtel.<br/>