IFN- does not need FAA approval
by: ir50_2000 9/13/00 7:58 pm
Msg: 71555 of 71579
Company:
In-Flight Network, LLC (IFN) is a joint venture company formed by News Corp and Rockwell Collins to provide digital broadband communications services - including live television, Internet access and e-mail services to aircraft in flight throughout the world.
IFN leverages News Corps' and Rockwell Collins' core strengths. News Corps' brings its global satellite broadcasting expertise; entertainment and information content production capabilities and is a world leader in digital data broadcasting technology. Rockwell Collins is a leading producer of airborne electronics and has provided communication, navigation and other aviation electronics for airlines around the world for the past 70 years.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Does the IFN system need regulatory approval for operation?
No. IFN was designed to utilize existing commercial satellite constellations and communications technologies. IFN in-flight data communication and Internet services are demonstrable today.
Will the IFN system be a global system?
Yes. Modeled around our customers, IFN was designed to be a global system from the very start. The existing commercial satellite network utilized by IFN provides global coverage with additional capacity available over high-traffic regions.
Do I need any special computer hardware or software to use the IFN system?
No. Commonly available network interface cards will enable you to connect to the IFN system. Many airlines are planning to allow access to such services in their airport lounge and the gate areas, in addition to the aircraft itself.
I am an AOL subscriber. Can IFN give me access to my AOL account?
Yes. IFN is designed to allow you to access your AOL or MSN account or any other Internet or VPN email system.
My company uses a secure network. Can I use my VPN or RAS connection to connect to my company's Intranet?
Absolutely. IFN recognizes the utility of Internet, VPN and RAS connectivity to the business traveler. VPN and RAS systems require a certain quality of service and network speed in order to maintain the connection. IFN is designed to deliver this performance and more to the corporate traveler.
Can I access corporate applications, sales databases and other secure corporate applications with IFN?
Yes. The IFN will deliver the same connectivity experience you have come to expect while staying in a modern hotel located in a major metropolitan area while traveling.
Will E-mail work over ocean areas?
Yes. The IFN will offer global access over land and sea.
What will IFN service cost passengers?
Broadcast content and web content provided over the in-cabin Intranet is free, supported by IFN advertisers. Internet access and email services will be offered on a monthly subscription basis at a cost which is expected to be similar to the cost of comparable services on the ground.
Will IFN need to launch any satellites to make its service operable?
No. IFN will use existing geosynchronous satellites and low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. IFN customers avoid the risk of depending on a service whose satellites have yet to be built, launched or activated.
How fast will my connection be?
With IFN, your connection speed will rival or surpass the connection you are used to on the ground when accessing the Internet from your hotel, as an example.
Is the IFN system secure enough to let me manage my investments, do my banking or shop on-line?
Absolutely. Just remember; it is an Internet connection, just like you experience at home or in your office, but in addition to the security provided by your standard web browser and the brokerage, banking or shopping website you use, IFN has taken additional security precautions to make sure that data transmitted over IFN satellite links is encrypted and secure. |
