Airtel ATN, a global leader in Data Link communication systems, is celebrating a decade of partnership with ELINK as the two companies continue to advance aviation technology in China. This milestone, marked at Airspace World in Hong Kong, highlights their shared commitment to innovation—particularly through the deployment of Airtel ATN ELINK Data Link Test Platforms for C919 production. The collaboration supports the rapid expansion of China’s commercial aviation sector and strengthens digital connectivity across the industry.
As part of their latest collaboration, Shanghai Aircraft Manufacturing Company (SAMC) will acquire two additional Mobile Test Platform (MTP) units from Airtel ATN to support the expansion of the C919 aircraft production line. ELINK, Airtel’s long-standing distribution and support partner in China, will deliver the new systems in December 2025.
Airtel’s MTP technology is a core enabler for aircraft manufacturers and MROs, providing a cost-effective, ground-based solution for testing and validating Data Link Communications, eliminating the need for expensive in-flight testing. The MTP ensures reliable, repeatable verification of CPDLC and related Data Link performance across production and maintenance environments.
“This marks another important chapter in our long-standing collaboration with ELINK,” said Santi Ibarz, CEO at Airtel ATN. “China’s aviation industry continues to grow at an extraordinary pace, and we are proud that Airtel ATN’s technology will support the development and production of the C919.”
The strengthened partnership reflects how continued cooperation and innovation between Airtel ATN and ELINK are helping advance aircraft manufacturing, Data Link readiness, and operational excellence across China’s aviation ecosystem.
About Airtel ATN
Airtel ATN is a global leader in Data Link systems, supplying operational and test solutions to Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), avionics manufacturers, communications service providers, and MRO organisations worldwide.
Founded in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, Airtel transitioned from telecommunications to aeronautical systems in 1998. Today, 60% of European ANSPs and more than 12,500 aircraft rely on Airtel’s Data Link solutions. Customers include USAF, Eurocontrol, Irish Aviation Authority, ENAV, DSNA, NAV Portugal, Naviair, Skyguide, Hungarocontrol, Slovenia Control, ANS CR, Collins, Airbus, Boeing, FAA, and ESA.
