Airbus China Innovation Centre (ACIC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Mobile Intelligent Mobility Network Co.,Ltd (CMIM), a subsidiary of China Mobile focusing on transportation, to cooperate on research and technology for the application of air-to-ground (ATG) connectivity in China.

With the publication of the "Guidelines for the Evaluation of the Use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) on board" by the Civil Aviation Administration of China earlier this year, the ban on the use of mobile phones has gradually been lifted for Chinese domestic air travel. The cooperation will combine the advantages of both parties, to develop an end-to-end solution and create a new inflight high-speed connectivity experience, leveraging the favourable policy on the use of portable electronic devices on board and upcoming 5G technology.

Based in Shenzhen, Airbus China Innovation Centre is the first Innovation Centre set up by Airbus in Asia. Its mission is to fully leverage local advantages including talents, enterprises and eco-system, combining it with Airbus expertise in aerospace, to discover breakthroughs in technologies, business models and new growth opportunities. Airbus China Innovation Centre is now fully operational and the official office opening is scheduled in early 2019.

Contributed by Airbus