Patent ID: 7949335

Claim:
A multi-modal portable communications gateway for operation in an airport environment, comprising: a communication interface; a controller that controls the operation of the multi-modal portable communications gateway; a controller panel that includes a user interface to enable a user to interact with the multi-modal portable communications gateway; a WiFi antenna that enables reception and transmission of WiFi signals; a cellular antenna that enables reception and transmission of cellular signals; a power supply unit that enables power to be provided to the multi-modal portable communications gateway, wherein the controller signals the power supply unit to shut down based on one or more safety indication; a communication router that receives data from systems in the airport environment through the communication interface, and transmits the data to at least one predetermined location outside an aircraft upon receiving a signal from the controller; and one or more charging port that enables external electronic devices to be connected to the multi-modal portable communications gateway, wherein the power supply unit enables power to be provided to charge batteries of the external devices.