Rockwell Collins is the first to allow complete cabin and media control via a single Wi-Fi access point, creating a more seamless experience for passengers. The solution is made possible by integrating Rockwell Collins' Cabin Electronic System (CES) with the Airborne Data Router (ADR) from ARINCDirectSM.

"In the past, a passenger would be on one network to lower the cabin blinds but would have to switch to another if he or she wanted to browse the internet," said David Stanley, senior director of Strategy and Business Development, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. "This can now all be done using a single access point. It's faster, easier and makes the in-flight experience much more seamless for passengers."

The integration adds the ability to prioritize multiple WAN networks as well as the ability to control the cabin CES functions.

"This single Wi-Fi access point also provides benefits for crew members," continued Stanley. "With it, we can help business aviation operators use a single network to prioritize traffic and effectively manage their entire suite of connectivity options."

The first installation for the solution's launch customer was recently completed and the service contract is underway using Inmarsat's JetConnex broadband service.