Massive Data Transfer From and to Aircraft on Ground: Feasibility and Challenges

The analysis of large amount of sensor data can enhance aircraft operations and maintenance. In contrast to other use cases, aircraft sensor data are accumulated on-board during the flight. The data need to be transferred in a short time while the aircraft is on the ground due to limited and expensive connectivity in the air. This leads to a massive transfer of data in a short time. Therefore, we analyze the data rate demand per aircraft in terms of generated data per flight hour. We determine the influence of different parameters on the needed data rate per aircraft. We conclude that the needed data rates are feasible if the full day is used for transmitting. We show that multiple terabyte of generated data per flight hour can be supported by 5G data rates. Furthermore, we highlight challenges for the deployment of an aircraft data transfer system.