Global aviation industry specialist ICT company SITA has launched a new service – SITA Managed Satellites. Making use of low Earth orbit satellites, it provides airports with communications that are secure, low-latency and high-bandwidth, that will keep airport systems functioning when other communications systems are overloaded or even completely offline, for whatever reason.

“The quality and availability of the latest satellite technology means that it’s becoming a vital component within high availability networks,” highlights SITA senior VP: communications and data exchange Martin Smillie. 

“Airports, in particular, need new ways to ensure they can maintain critical operations in whatever circumstances they face – even when diverse incidents strike. Delivering high-speed internet connectivity via established satellite providers, SITA Managed Satellites is an innovative solution to keep all parts of the aviation industry connected to vital platforms – even in the most challenging of times – and can be adapted for other transport sectors and markets also. It delivers a blend of availability and cost-effectiveness to optimise investments in any cloud, on-premises or hybrid computing environment.”

The new service provides a satellite-based system that is specific to aviation and adheres to industry regulations. It includes full lifecycle management and support in more than 130 countries and provides proactive infrastructure monitoring to ensure that issues are dealt with before they affect operations. It can integrate with other SITA airport connectivity services and the option of bundling it with them is available. And expert on-site support is provided for surveys, setting up, continuous maintenance, and the replacement of hardware.

SITA provides 24/7 installation, monitoring, maintenance and support, globally. The service can be deployed wherever it is needed, such as at cargo hubs and aircraft maintenance hangers, as well as at off-airport sites, including remote locations without a pre-existing digital infrastructure.

The service can also be used to provide temporary services for the opening of new routes, or seasonal operations. It enables rapid emergency deployments and ensures that ground crews and systems are never out of communications. It will maintain essential communications even during blackouts and/or natural disasters.

“With aviation more reliant than ever on uninterrupted digital operations, SITA Managed Satellites gives customers the confidence and tools they need to keep critical systems live, even in the most unpredictable conditions,” affirmed SITA.