Abstract: A wireless communications system and method for use with aircraft includes an airline network and an aircraft communications system. The airline network includes a reservation system having a database storing passenger and flight information, an interface to an external network and a home location register. The reservation system includes logic for provisioning a subscriber unit and defining at least one location-based event associated with the subscriber unit. The home location register tracks the location of the subscriber unit. The aircraft communications system includes a wireless base station facilitating radio communication with the provisioned subscriber unit and a second interface to the external network. During operation, the home location register executes the location-based event when the subscriber unit's movement into the location associated with the location-based event is detected.

Abstract: A private communications system includes a base station, a switch and an interface to an external network. The base station provides a radio link between the private communications system and a subscriber unit. The subscriber unit has an associated mini-subscription providing the subscriber unit with temporary access to the private communications system. The switch is connected to the base station and provides the subscriber unit with access to the private communications system when the mini-subscription is active. The interface is connected to the switch. In operation, the mini-subscription information is automatically transmitted to the external wireless network, via the interface, when the mini-subscription is terminated.

Abstract: A user may locate a missing wireless device through a location server storing user-associated location information. A wireless device includes a client location application adapted to determine a current geographic location and transmit location data to a location server, a power source, and a power management application adapted to detect a low power level and instruct the client location application to determine the current geographic location. The wireless device further includes a GPS receiver adapted to receive and decode GPS signals and a personal GPS directory storing location information associated with the subscriber unit.