SkyFive validates a next-generation inflight connectivity service in central Europe. Airborne centerpiece of this network is Diehl’s High Performance Controller (HPC) – acting as an airborne terminal. The network integrates a broadband Air-to-Ground (A2G) network from SkyFive, a Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) from EchoStar Mobile, and a terrestrial 4G/5G network. The HPC is part of Diehl’s powerful CANSASTM system. Thanks to its modular design, the HPC operates as a Communication Concentrator Unit (CCU) in this particular case.
As an integral part of SkyFive’s triple-path inflight connectivity service, the onboard HPC CCU ensures reliable connectivity across multiple channels, including private 4G Air2Ground, 5G/LTE public cellular and non-terrestrial network (NTN). Acting as the central airborne terminal, the HPC manages communication signal processing and enables seamless data transmission between different networks. This guarantees high availability and robust data connections—an essential prerequisite for modern aviation services, from cockpit and passenger communication to operational and safety-critical applications. In addition, the HPC CCU provides excellent capabilities for cyber security and the isolation of security domains. The powerful yet compact HPC has been specifically designed for business jets, small aircraft, helicopters, and air taxis. Its modular architecture allows for flexible expansion, making it adaptable to individual customer requirements.
Partnership with SkyFive for the Future of Aviation Communication
While Diehl Aviation’s HPC forms the core technology on board the aircraft, additional companies contribute to the collaboration with SkyFive. The integration of SkyFive’s advanced A2G connectivity algorithms and Echostar Mobile’s non-terrestrial network technology makes the system highly efficient and future-proof. Sequans provides the technology for the A2G modem, which implements the patented SkyFive algorithms. The network is continuously evolving to enhance interoperability between satellites and user terminals from different providers.
For the future, Diehl Aviation and SkyFive are working to further reduce the volume of the on-board terminal to less than one liter and to keep the weight of the device as low as possible, with the aim of achieving a weight of just under 1,300 grams. In addition, the solution will also reduce data costs through the introduction of 5G NTN. These advances will particularly benefit low-cost carriers and business jet operators.
About Diehl Aviation
Diehl Aviation is a global partner for the aviation industry. The supplier is recognized as a pioneer, driving innovation and enabling the future of flying. Diehl Aviation aims to make travel safer and more comfortable, save valuable resources, and present ground-breaking solutions to customers in all business areas. Diehl Aviation is a corporate division of Diehl Stiftung & Co. KG. Diehl Aviation (including Diehl Aerospace, a joint venture with Thales) is a leading system supplier of aircraft system and cabin solutions and currently has over 5,200 employees. Its customers include leading aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer, military partners, manufacturers of eVTOL aircraft, and airlines and operators of commercial and business aircraft worldwide.