SARP compliant

Citation

(2003), "SARP compliant", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 75 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2003.12775cab.014

SARP compliant

SARP compliant

According to Inmarsat its aeronautical systems are the only satellite communication systems that are SARPs compliant. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), is a UN-specialised agency which oversees and administrates the provision of its standards and recommended practices (SARPs) for all aircraft satellite communications. Brian Mullan, General Manager of Maritime and Aeronautical Safety Services, Inmarsat states, "The majority of air traffic services authorities are reluctant to allow any system not covered by SARPs to be used by air traffic control communications. Inmarsat provides all satellite flight deck communications in the oceanic regions which includes 80 per cent of the world's wide-bodied fleet (trans-oceanic aircraft) and virtually every business aircraft."

Brian continues, "The only alternative to satellite communications is high frequency radio, which can be susceptible to atmospheric disturbance. This often interrupts communications and can mean loss of contact. In addition, VHF and HF radio are broadcast systems and can be susceptible to eavesdropping. Inmarsat satellite communications offer a much more secure communications path."

Brian Mullan concludes, "It is imperative that crew are able to keep in contact with the dispatchers and the air traffic control staff 100 per cent of the time. In an emergency situation on board an aircraft, crew want to be absolutely safe in the knowledge that they can contact ground crew. All Inmarsat communication systems deliver two critical things to all users; absolute performance and absolute confidence. Inmarsat's track record, heritage and continued investment and innovation ensure that all aircraft users will have a totally satisfied user experience."