On December 2023 a new allocation to AMS(R)S (aeronautical mobile-satellite (route) service) in the aeronautical VHF band (117.975 – 137 MHz) was approved in the ITU.
With this new attribution, the aeronautical community is allowed to use the aeronautical band for VHF communications from space. Today, ICAO working groups are making a huge effort in the regulatory aspects and SARPS modifications for these services to become a reality.

Constellations like Startical will offer VHF communications services (voice and data) and surveillance in oceanic and remote areas without any modification in existing avionic. This will be a huge benefit, increasing safety, efficiency and allowing the use of new optimal and more ecological routes.

By Juanjo Cornejo, Director of Business Development and Institutional Relations, Startical