SITAONAIR’s new partnership with the United Arab Emirates-based MNO means subscribers to Etisalat’s business roaming packs, who fly with any airline using SITAONAIR’s Mobile ONAIR network, will now be able to use their data and minutes inflight as part of their bundle at no extra cost. SITAONAIR inflight

This new, all-inclusive SITAONAIR-Etisalat roaming agreement offers consumers a stress-free, seamless mobile connectivity experience, whether they use their mobile on the ground or in the air. Not only that, as inflight technology evolves from 2G, 3.5G and 4G networks, the agreement also represents a positive step in preparing for future inflight connectivity provision from the UAE, one of the world’s leading business and commerce hubs.

Yann Cabaret, VP Customer Programs at SITAONAIR, said:

“We have long encouraged our mobile network operator partners to bring inflight mobile usage rates as close as possible to on-the-ground mobile usage rates. This roaming agreement takes this even further, with the world of inflight mobile connectivity opened up to all Etisalat customers when they fly, with no additional usage costs, and a seamless mobile experience up in the air, just as they have at home.

“We fully expect the growth in mobile use to continue as customers’ hunger for data grows with the available capacity, especially in a 5G world where data could transmit at a rate of 1GB per second, driving the delivery of new Internet of Things, augmented and virtual reality, automation, and artificial intelligence services and capabilities. To meet this future demand, major mobile operators have announced their plan to move into the 5G era with early commercial launches in 2019, including in the UAE.

“Airlines need to be ready to respond to this changing mobile reality. To meet their passengers’ burgeoning demand, they will need a game plan for providing future-proof inflight mobile connectivity that delivers a seamless, high-capacity, and dynamic connected experience for passengers as we fly to 4G and beyond.”

Recognizing that the majority of business passengers need to remain connected on the go, Etisalat and SITAONAIR have delivered a game changer for travellers. Etisalat’s roaming network currently covers 190 destinations, including onboard aircraft. SITAONAIR inflight

SITAONAIR main offerings include:

1. Inflight Wi-Fi and Internet Access: This lets passengers access the internet during flights, using Wi-Fi onboard. SITAONAIR provides high-speed connectivity via satellite services, which can be customized depending on the airline’s and passengers’ needs.
2. Mobile Services: SITAONAIR offers inflight cellular network access so passengers can use mobile data and make calls where regulations allow. This service integrates directly with passengers’ mobile networks, allowing seamless transition without needing to sign up or change settings.
3. Crew and Operational Solutions: Besides passenger-facing connectivity, SITAONAIR offers tools that support inflight crew operations. They provide real-time communications and data-sharing for enhanced decision-making, which can improve flight efficiency, safety, and passenger service.
4. Digital Platform Integration: SITAONAIR’s solutions integrate with airlines’ digital ecosystems, allowing airlines to offer personalized services to passengers, such as tailored content, real-time information, and targeted onboard promotions.

These technologies are part of SITAONAIR’s goal to help airlines stay connected and operationally agile, delivering a better experience to passengers and optimizing airline operations at the same time.