GRAHAM WARWICK / WASHINGTON DC
Communications provider ARINC has demonstrated a security messaging system based on its ACARS airline datalink.
The Security Messenger is an autonomous ACARS-capable VHF transceiver which can advise of an airborne threat and transmit aircraft situation data.
The low-cost transceiver includes a global positioning system receiver and would be placed in an inaccessible location on the aircraft, with battery back-up power to make it tamper-proof. The device can be activated by wireless "panic buttons" carried by the crew, or by input from a sensor such as a smoke detector.
Once triggered, the Security Messenger would transmit via ACARS an alert message, plus the aircraft's identity, position, speed, course and altitude.
ARINC's ground infrastructure would decode the message and route it to the airline, air traffic control and other authorities, allowing them to track the aircraft.
The Anapolis, Maryland-based, company demonstrated the end-to-end system in flight earlier this month, including the device, panic buttons, and ground-based software enabling users to receive panic messages and observe an aircraft's position. The company is proposing the system as an alternative to secure transponders.
The Security Messenger is based on a low-cost ACARS transceiver already under development for the general aviation market, and ARINC could deliver units within 90 days of an order - "enough to equip aircraft operating into Washington National", says Rolf Stefani, director business development, aviation air traffic services. The hardware will cost "in the $10,000 range, versus $100,000 for a normal ACARS unit", he adds.
Source: Flight International
