(Yicai Global) May 14 -- China set out a roadmap today for the new generation of aviation broadband communication applications.

The immediate goal, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, is to achieve intelligent interconnection of key operating elements of the country’s civil aviation industry, including air traffic control, airports, airlines, and services, by 2030.

The roadmap divides application and implementation of the new generation of aviation broadband communication technology into three phases: a short-term period from now to 2025, a mid-term period from 2025 to 2030, and a long-term period from 2030 to 2035.

The mid-term goal is to build a civil aviation fifth-generation communications network, combining public and private use, by the end of 2030, and realize smart interconnection of key industry elements, Zhang Ruiqing, deputy director of the Office of Air Traffic Regulation under the CACC, told reporters this morning.

To achieve the goal, it is necessary to complete the demonstration and promotion of 5G technology in the industry in the short-term period, Zhang said.

In the long-term period, the main goal is to achieve full coverage of intelligent networks in the industry, and create a modern civil aviation infrastructure system.

Zhang said the goals can be realized if the CACC and everyone else involved -- equipment makers, airplane manufacturers, unmanned aircraft makers, airline and airport operators, air traffic controllers, and communication carriers -- are all clear about their roles and responsibilities.

They should form a technology and application development mechanism with multi-subject participation and cooperation, he added.

Editor: Peter Thomas