Aircraft operators and charters can choose to charge individual passengers for in-flight internet usage through a new product from Satcom Direct.
The so-called SkyTicket system "is similar to internet services offered on commercial flights but is built specifically for the business aviation industry and charter operators, featuring a secure portal screen that can be customized to the operator's brand", said Satcom Direct.
To use SkyTicket, passengers enter any URL in a computer browser and are redirected to a log-in page, where they can enter their method of payment and pick a package of time or block of usage, determined by the satellite network and the hardware on the aircraft. Those with an existing SkyTicket account can enter the account e-mail and password to log in or create an account while on the aircraft.
Passengers can also view their usage amount while logged in and are notified when their package balance is running low.
"SkyTicket is a great product for Part 135 operators or operators who want to track internet usage by individual passengers or departments. It is designed with a simple [graphical user] interface that works similar to when you use the internet in a hotel or coffee shop, and the log-in screen can be branded to showcase logos and brand colours for a charter operator or business," said Jim Jensen, founder and owner of Satcom Direct.
"Most operators who choose SkyTicket won't have to trade out existing equipment to use it, as it is currently being deployed with EMS router platforms and we have others in development."
SkyTicket currently works with Inmarsat L-band and Yonder Ku-band hardware, with functionality on multiple other hardware platforms coming in the near future.
It comprises one of several services for which Satcom Direct has developed mobile applications. The company has also developed apps for its AeroV voice over IP technology, its FlightDeck Freedom flight deck data service, its Plane Simple account management access service and its MATA mobile access troubleshooting application.
Satcom Direct mobile apps are currently available for all Apple devices, including the iPhone and iPad, and can be downloaded from the iTunes store. The company said some applications require a subscription and others require existing service through Satcom Direct. All of the apps are free to download except AeroV.
Source: Flight Daily News
