Introduction - Regulatory Treatment

Passenger Connectivity systems extend the reach of networks and promote a number of benefits to consumers.  The systems enhance connectivity, support efficient spectrum use, and foster public policy objectives and competition.  Although they innovate over earlier, standard technologies, Passenger Connectivity systems benefit from existing regulatory frameworks which can easily be applied by regulators around the world.

Passenger Connectivity systems have several features in common that set them apart from systems provided terrestrially or within national boundaries:

• Passenger Connectivity, by definition, focuses on a closed and limited user group.  Systems targeting only passengers on aircraft – as well as crew – are not accessible by the general public
• Onboard aircraft systems are tested and certified to operate according to strict safety parameters, preventing interference to onboard avionic systems
• Under international law, licensing responsibility for onboard systems lies with the country of registration of the aircraft (flag state). 

In most other ways, Passenger Connectivity systems are standard in respect of their design and conformance with internationally-recognized standards.  These facts permit regulators to apply an appropriate and transparent regime to their approval, further discussed in these pages, and to lead among agencies where coordination of approach is required.