MUMBAI: A mobile revolution is happening up above the skies with two of the prominent global aircraft manufacturers bringing in on-board mobile phones.

Boeing has kicked it off and now Airbus has followed its arch-rival with the announcement that it will enable on-board mobile phone calls next year.
According to reports, Airbus would offer to incorporate Siemens-made base-stations on behalf of new customers of its 100-200 seater, mid-range A320 family.
The system will be operated and maintained by Airbus subsidiary OnAir. Boeing's subsidiary Connexion has already said it would roll-out in-flight mobile phone systems during 2006. Both companies' kit is expected to be available for each others' aircraft, add reports.

Germany is expected to lift the ban on in-flight mobile usage next year. In the US, the Federal Communications Commission is planning to review its rules on the use of mobile phones during flights.