3G Trials at Japanese Airport

Japan Airlines (JAL) and DoCoMo have jointly announced that they will test applications operating on 3G and wireless LAN networks for JAL ground staff use at Narita Airport from June 2 to November 30, 2003.

The test involves the use of 20 personal digital assistants (PDAs) and five personal computers equipped with FOMA data cards for simultaneous voice and data transmissions.

JAL's airport ground staff currently use wireless devices, but for voice communications only. The new devices make it possible to check flight information visually and talk simultaneously and the test will enable them to evaluate any improved operational efficiency as a result.

Flight information and other data will be sent via 384 Kbps packet transmissions over the FOMA network, while voice will be handled via a wireless LAN network operated by Narita Airport. DoCoMo developed all required systems.

The joint test with JAL is expected to contribute greatly to DoCoMo's ongoing development of new FOMA services for corporate applications, and to improve JAL flight operations preparation in airport locations."

Posted to the site on 2nd June 2003