Aircraft-based network for wireless subscriber stations

Abstract

The aircraft-based network for wireless subscriber stations provides wireless telecommunication services in the aircraft for both the terrestrial (ground-based) and non-terrestrial regions via the use of an aircraft based network. In addition, the aircraft-based network for wireless subscriber stations implements data transmission capabilities for use in the aircraft to provide Flight Information Services, real time monitoring of aircraft operation, as well as enhanced data communication services for the passengers in the aircraft. These wireless communications can be among aircraft occupants as well as between aircraft occupants and other destinations. This data communications capability of the aircraft-based network for wireless subscriber stations can be used to link the aircraft and its occupants to a private data communication network as well as to provide access to public data communication networks, such as the Internet. Thus, the subscriber who is equipped with a wireless subscriber station can maintain a single set of identification data (MIN, ESN) regardless of their location in the multi-dimensional cellular mobile telecommunication system and independent of the mode of operation: ground-based cellular communications or non-terrestrial cellular communications.