Talk to people, not planes
JetStream vs ACARS
ACARS is deeply ingrained in aviation – perhaps not surprising since it has been around since the 1970s. However, the name gives away one major weakness: Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System.
Unlike ACARS, JetStream shines in the pre-flight phase where communications, including photos and documents, should be directed to the people who can help dispatch the flight safely and on time rather than the airplane flight deck printer.
- Expensive: Equipment and per-use fees.
- Text only: No files or photos.
- Isolated: Addresses aircraft, not people. No mobile connectivity.
- Insecure: Unencrypted transmission.