Modernize flight operations communications infrastructure at Frankfurt and Munich

Lufthansa modernizes flight operations communications

Case study

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Enhanced flight safety with modern RoIP communications in Frankfurt & Munich

Lufthansa, one of the world's leading airlines, has modernized the flight operations communications infrastructure at its major hub locations in Frankfurt and Munich. This project focused on implementing a state-of-the-art solution capable of delivering modern radio over IP (RoIP) services for vital VHF radio communications with pilots.

Maintaining critical communications during irregular operations

Lufthansa recognized the critical importance of reliable communications, particularly during irregular operations. Situations like drone sightings or severe weather events necessitate immediate communications between the cockpit and air traffic control/dispatch. While aircraft communications addressing and reporting system (ACARS) provides a communications channel, it can be significantly

slower compared to the one to two minutes achievable via radio communications. The potential for delayed information processing in these scenarios posed a risk to operational efficiency and, most importantly, flight safety.

Customer: Deutsche Lufthansa AG
Scope: Lufthansa RoIP communications upgrade
Task and requirement: Modernize flight operations communications infrastructure at Frankfurt and Munich hubs to provide reliable RoIP services for VHF radio communications with pilots.
Project duration: 2024

A turnkey, full-IP system from Rohde & Schwarz

To address these challenges, Lufthansa chose Rohde & Schwarz as a "one-stop solution provider", implementing a fully IP based communications system. This included the installation of R&S®Series5200 VHF radios, renowned for their exceptional quality and reliability. Rohde & Schwarz took full responsibility for the turnkey provision of a fully integrated communications solution, ensuring seamless system integration at both the Frankfurt and Munich hubs.

Enhanced safety, efficiency and reliability

Potential for improved flight safety: The Rohde & Schwarz system is designed to facilitate swift and dependable communications between pilots and operations teams, with the aim of minimizing delays in critical information exchange and supporting overall flight safety.
Potential for enhanced operational efficiency: The reliable VHF radio communications, particularly during irregular operations, is intended to enable faster decision-making and smoother flight operations.
High operational availability: The solution is engineered to ensure a high operational availability of over 99.9 %, minimizing potential downtime and maintaining the readiness of critical communications systems.
Future-proof technology: The full-IP architecture provides a foundation for evolving communications needs, enabling Lufthansa to adapt and innovate as technology advances.