It was announced this week that an advanced airborne 5G connectivity system has been successfully integrated to a Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, completing a series of demonstration flights.

The technology is being developed by a number of UK companies led by non-terrestrial networks telecoms developer Stratospheric Platforms Limited (SPL).  The design, integration and demonstration flights is provided by manufacturer Britten-Norman.

The companies say the next phase of the project involves demonstrating the technology via a connection to a private UK-based national 5G telecommunications network.

Richard Deakin, CEO at Stratospheric Platforms Limited said: “Stratospheric Platforms is dedicated to creating pioneering innovative solutions that transform the connectivity landscape. Our commitment to delivering high-altitude, zero-carbon, long-endurance communication platforms will revolutionize how the world stays connected, especially in remote and underserved regions.

“We believe that our cutting-edge technology will provide unprecedented opportunities for global communication and create a more connected and inclusive world. Today’s flight test is an important step in the continuing validation of our technology breakthroughs.”