Airbus H145 Helicopter with Thuraya Aero. Photo: Airbus/Thuraya

Thuraya and SCOTTY Group have secured line-fit offerability for the Thuraya Aero mobile connectivity solution on Airbus H145 and H135 helicopters, the companies announced Thursday. Thuraya Aero is an In-Flight Connectivity and data-sharing platform that uses mobile satellite communications to provide internet access, text messaging, phone calls, VOIP, video and audio conferencing as well as aerial surveillance, especially for Beyond-Line-of-Sight missions. 

Airbus customers can now install and customize their Thuraya Aero kit when ordering new aircraft. Thuraya said the system will be fitted on the production line, with no need for further tests and verification, and the aircraft will be ready to use on delivery. This will allow it to be deployed immediately to deliver mission-critical capabilities instead of being grounded for months to retrofit communication systems.

Thuraya deputy CEO Sulaiman Al Ali  said, “Line-fit certification, which undergoes a rigorous compliance process, is a testament to the reliability and robustness of our network and airborne satellite communications services. It is of paramount importance to our government customers to access onboard communication as soon as they take possession of their new aircraft so they are ready in their mission-critical duties.”