Radio propagation analysis using an aircraft model for MIMO antenna system in an anechoic chamber

Recently, new aeronautical communication systems using L-band and C-band frequencies have been defined as candidates for future communication by the Aeronautical Communication Panel of the International Civil Aviation Organization. The performance of the system may be greatly improved if the Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna system is applied to the air-ground communication system. The MIMO antenna system has multiple antenna elements, which uses indirect waves, such as multipath etc., in addition to the direct wave to enhance transmission capability. It is important to analyze the effect of the surface of the aircraft on radio propagation for the introduction of MIMO antenna systems. This paper describes the radio propagation characteristics of the antenna system on aircraft, measured using a scale model and measurement equipments in an anechoic chamber. It describes the effect of the aircraft structure, such as, tail etc., on radio propagation, and the availability of the MIMO antenna system for aeronautical communication systems.